By David Awopetu
Liverpool captain, Jordan Henderson, has been named the Football Writers’ Association (FWA) Footballer of the Year for the 2019-20 Premier League season.
The Reds midfielder played a crucial role as the Reds stormed their way to the Premier League title, their first English top-flight crown in 30 years.
The 30-year-old beat competition from teammates Sadio Mane and Virgil van Dijk, as well as Manchester City midfielder, Kevin De Bruyne, and striker, Marcus Rashford of Manchester United.
Henderson, who led Jurgen Klopp’s side to its first Premier League title and first top-flight championship in 30 years, received more than 25% of the vote.
As well as making his presence felt in 30 Premier League games this season as Liverpool have surged to the title with an 18-point lead at the top of the table, Henderson also led by example off the pitch during football’s three-month shutdown due to coronavirus.
He spearheaded the #PlayersTogether initiative during the lockdown, which saw players team up to raise money for Britain’s National Health Service.
“I accept it on behalf of this whole squad, because without them I’m not in a position to be receiving this honour. These lads have made me a better player, a better leader and a better person,” said Henderson.
“If anything I hope those who voted for me did so partly to recognise the entire team’s contribution.”
As well as the top five nominees, other players voted for includes Liverpool duo of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alisson Becker, Manchester city’s Raheem Sterling and Sergio Aguero, Aaron Wan-Bissaka of Manchester United, Adama Traore of Wolves, Southampton’s Danny Ings, Aston Villa’s Jack Grealish and Leicester’s duo of James Maddison and Jonny Evans.
