Stevie G named Footballer of the Year
Liverpool's all-star captain Steven Gerrard has been named England's Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association.
The FWA preferred the 28-year-old midfielder to Manchester United's duo, Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs. The latter was named the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Player of the Year in April.
Another Manchester United player, Cristiano Ronaldo, claimed the award in both 2007 and 2008.
The FWA award, the oldest of its kind in Europe, has been running since 1948.
Gerrard became the first Liverpool player to win the award for 19 years, when John Barnes added the honor to his First Division winners’ medal – the last time the Anfield club won the title.
In 2008-2009, Gerrard scored 23 goals in all of Liverpool’s encounters, which is the best tally in his career.
Commenting on the decision FWA chairman Steve Bates said:
“Steven's performances this season have been of the highest quality. His drive and desire have underpinned Liverpool's Premier League title challenge and ensured a tight finish to the season.”
Wednesday’s award, however, is likely to be Liverpool’s only success this year as the club has been knocked out of the Champions League, and is close to losing the chance to claim the Premier League title.
