Rooney named Footballer of the Year

Wayne Rooney has been voted the 2010 Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association.

The Manchester United striker topped the poll of journalists with just over 81 per cent of a record votes cast, finishing ahead of Chelsea forward Didier Drogba and Manchester City's Carlos Tevez to win the prestigious accolade which has been running since 1948.

The 24-year-old - who has led the Reds Devils' challenge to Chelsea for the Barclays Premier League title, scoring some 34 goals in all competitions - will receive his award at the FWA's gala dinner at The Lancaster London Hotel on 13th May.

"I am delighted to win an award with so much history and tradition and to follow a long line of wonderful players who have been honoured by the Football Writers' Association since 1948 gives me real pride," said Rooney.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank my manager at United, Sir Alex Ferguson, the coaching staff and my team-mates, without whose help and support this award would not have been possible.

"Also a big thanks to my family and friends for their constant support which is always appreciated.

"I thank the Football Writers' Association members who voted for me and I look forward to personally collecting my award at the Footballer of the Year dinner."

FWA chairman Steve Bates, chief football writer for The People, commented: "Wayne is a worthy winner of our prestigious award and the margin of his victory is testimony to the marvellous season he has had for club and country.

"His tally of 34 goals so far this season is certain to have captured the attention of our members, but I am sure the overall improvement in his game at Manchester United has been of equal significance.

"Wayne's enthusiasm, hunger and desire mark him out as a special player and we hope he can carry his club form onto the international stage in the World Cup this summer to help England achieve their dream.

"We now look forward to saluting Wayne at our dinner."

Rooney was last week named the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year to crown his best season yet.

The England striker has scored 26 goals in 30 Barclays Premier League appearances but is set to sit out Sunday's showdown at Sunderland through injury.

He hopes to be fit for the final fixture at home to Stoke City on 9th May but has pledged to be fit for the World Cup finals in South Africa.

(taken from premierleague.com)