Ayoze, who was announced as an ambassador for the charity earlier this season, was nominated by the Foundation on the basis of his outstanding support.

Since the season started, Ayoze has met the Girls under-nine development squad, launched the Foundation's Tesco Bank Junior Players programme, attended the charity's awards dinner, supported delivery in schools as well as committing to help raise awareness of the Foundation through an exciting new project, which will be revealed soon. The Spaniard said: "I am so happy to get this award. I am proud to be an ambassador for the Foundation - the work they do in the community is very important. I love hearing how they have helped people achieve their dreams and I will help any way I can. They do a really special job." Steve Beharall, Operations Manager at Newcastle United Foundation, who presented Ayoze with his award, added: "Ayoze's commitment to the Foundation has been amazing and we couldn't be happier to present him with this award.  "We're hugely grateful for the time he has given us and the huge effort he puts in when meeting our project participants and funders. Ayoze is a deserving Community Champion and we can't thank him enough for his support." John Hudson, the PFA's Director of Corporate Social Responsibility, commented: "The PFA believes that players who make that extra effort and contribution during the season should be recognised for their support and involvement in the local community. "This award will hopefully raise awareness of the great contribution and importance many of our members attach to their roles off the pitch. We would like to offer our congratulations to this season's recipient of the 2016/17 Community Champion Award."