The magazine cited Mahdavikia's goal and his role in the other three goals as the prime reason for its choice.

It quoted Mahdavikia's teammate Milan Fukal as saying that "Mahdavikia was the only star on the field."

The ex-Pirouzi striker had made it clear earlier that he would leave Hamburger SV should the team fail to qualify for a berth in the European Cup competitions.

"If we play internationally, I will stay with Hamburger SV. There would be no reason to leave," he was cited as saying in the German media.

Hamburg is currently ranked fifth in the league standings which would qualify them for a UEFA Cup spot.

Meanwhile, Mahdavikia's manager, Reza Fazeli, has postponed all contract extension negotiations until the end of May when the Bundesliga season ends.

Several English football clubs, among them powerhouse Manchester United, are reportedly keen on signing Mahdavikia.

Since Mahdavikia is known to be the best right-winger in the Bundesliga, Hamburg's coach, Kurt Jara, has repeatedly voiced his concern that the speedy forward could be signed up by other top European teams after his contract expires in the summer of 2004.

Mahdavikia is currently leading the Bundesliga assist list and has played a decisive role in his team's recent string of victories.