FOR the fourth season in a row, a non-Australian was awarded the Johnny Warren Medal on Monday night.

But it didn't go to Alessandro Del Piero, who most people were expecting to win.

Rather, it went to the man dubbed the "Kiwi Messi" - Melbourne Victory's Marco Rojas.

Rojas, 21, was the standout winner after receiving 908 votes from his peers, which easily doubled that of his nearest rival, Sydney FC's Del Piero (449 votes).

He was also streets ahead of Daniel McBreen (280 votes), Michael McGlinchey (239 votes) and Dario Vidosic (222 votes).

Rojas was a deserving winner, having scored 15 goals, with eight assists, but the award still took him by surprise.

"I definitely wasn't expecting this," he said.

Victory Coach Ange Postecoglou praised the youngster's efforts.

"To receive the Johnny Warren Medal at the age of just 21 is a very impressive feat, especially when you consider he also took out the Young Player of the Year award," he said.

Other major award winners

Goalkeeper of the Year: Ante Covic

Golden Boot: Daniel McBreen

Goal of the Year: Marcos Flores

Coach of the Year: Tony Popovic

Referee of the Year: Peter Green

Fair Play Award: Brisbane Roar