Xavi named player of Euro 2008

Spanish midfielder Xavi was named player of Euro 2008 by UEFA on Monday.

The 28-year-old Barcelona dynamo – scorer of eight goals in 63 internationals – was judged to be at the heart of Spain's triumphant campaign which saw them top it with a 1-0 victory over Germany in Sunday's final ending a 44 year title drought.

“It was him (Xavi) who gave the team its tempo,” said UEFA technical director Andy Roxburgh.

Xavi scored once in the tournament and also created the goal for Fernando Torres in the final.