Wayne Rooney has been voted player of the year by his peers in the Professional Footballers’ Association.

Radebe (left), Rooney and Milner (right)

The Manchester United striker who has scored 34 goals this season beat off competition from Didier Drogba, Carlos Tevez and Cesc Fabregas.

Rooney 24 said: "It’s a great feeling to win because it’s voted for by the players. It’s a great honour and I’m really proud."

The young player accolade went to Aston Villa’s James Milner.

Rooney was also nominated for that honour but England team-mate Milner, also 24 came out on top.

Milner who seems certain to be included in Fabio Capello’s World Cup squad credited a change in position for his success this season.

"I’ve been moved into the middle and that suits me as it helps me influence the game a bit more" he said.

"Maybe sometimes wide right you want to influence the game but you just can’t get yourself into it."

As for Rooney, he has blossomed at Old Trafford this season following the departures of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid and Carlos Tevez to Manchester City.

The England forward has played in a more advanced role than in previous seasons and has become hugely prolific in the air.

He has also had to cope with a number of injuries in recent weeks.

He injured ankle ligaments in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final against Bayern Munich and missed Saturday’s 3-1 win over Tottenham with a groin injury sustained in training.

However he insisted he will be fit for the World Cup and indeed hopes to play in United’s last league game, against Stoke.

"The groin will be fine for the World Cup there are no worries about that" said the former Everton player. "I’m hoping to play for United in the last game of the season.

"I remember coming here in 2005 and 2006 to win the young player of the year award. I saw the players winning the main one and it’s something I’ve aimed for since."

The striker paid tribute to United boss Sir Alex Ferguson and the influence he has had on his career.

"Sir Alex is a great manager who has really brought me on as a player since I joined United. His hunger passes through to the players.

"It’s great to see that he’s pushing 70 and he hasn’t changed a bit. I’m sure he’ll be at United a long time yet."

Former Leeds and South Africa defender Lucas Radebe 41, won the PFA Merit Award.

"Sport can change the world" he said.

"Football has played such a big part in lifting my community. I’m very proud to get such a great award."

Published 26/04/2010 | Ref: KRIS IRWIN

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