Few months after clinching the Player of the Tournament award at the Euro 2012; Spanish midfielder Andres Iniesta has pipped Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi to receive the UEFA Best Player in Europe award.

The 28 year-old's award was decided by 53 European journalists who cast their votes during Thursday's Champions League group-stage draw in Monaco.

In his reaction, iniesta said "I am very honoured and I dedicate this award to my Barcelona and Spain team-mates," said Iniesta, who received the award from UEFA president Michel Platini.

I am privileged to be here with two such great footballers as Leo and Cristiano."