Emelec forward Marcos Mondaini has been handed the "Golden Spencer" award after being named the Player of the Year in Ecuador.

Mondaini was presented on Wednesday with the award, named in honour of local legend Alberto Spencer, the leading scorer in Copa Libertadores history, who passed away last month.

The 21-year-old Argentine-born player, who began his career with the Boca Juniors youth side, has made a big attempt since joining Emelec early this year.

"I never imagined that I would achieve such an important honour in Ecuador after being here for only one year," said Mondaini.

"When I arrived in January, I did it with the intention of playing top-flight football with Emelec. Thanks to God, it has been a very good year for me."

Mondaini's team-mate Marcelo Elizaga was named Goalkeeper of the Year, El Nacional's David Quiroz took Midfielder of the Year, while Barcelona's Jairo Montano was presented with the Defender of the Year award despite only playing in Ecuador during the second half of 2006.

PSV Eindhoven midfielder Edison Mendez was voted the Best Ecuadorian Overseas, while Emelec boss Carlos Torres Garces won Coach of the Year.

There are three rounds of games remaining in the final stage of the Campeonato Nacional with Liga Deportiva Universitaria and El Nacional leading the standings with 14 points each.