A Liverpool star has been snubbed in the shortlist for the Premier League Players’ Player of the Year shortlist – voted for by the athletes themselves.
Six players have made the six-man group, which will then be whittled down to one as top flight players are afforded a vote for who they thing the standout player in the top flight has been.
Liverpool cantered to another Premier League title, wining the league by 10 points but claiming victory with four games left to play in Arne Slot’s first season in charge.
They were expected to dominate the shortlist, but just two stars have been included – with one man a notable absentee despite another impressive campaign.
Golden Boot winner Mohamed Salah is featured, and is heavy favourite to take the crown. He is joined by midfielder Alexis Mac Allister after the Argentine helped Liverpool to the title in his second year at the club.
One player’s absence raised questions, however – and that is captain Virgil van Dijk, who was an ever-present and led the Reds to just their second Premier League title ever.
Van Dijk played 37 Premier League matches for Liverpool last term, missing only the penultimate game of the campaign away to Brighton, when he was rested for the 3-2 defeat.
He was widely regarded as the best defender yet again, helping his side to the second-best defensive record, behind only Arsenal, in a year that he penned a new contract.
The Dutchman didn’t, though, make the final six of the player vote, with no defenders included at all.
Salah netted 29 Premier League goals in a campaign that few doubt he was the best player in, anchoring Liverpool to the title.
Mac Allister, meanwhile, scored five goals from midfield, but received widespread praise for his combative midfield performances in the 35 matches he played, often providing the glue in the centre of the park for the Reds.
Elsewhere, Arsenal’s Declan Rice makes in the final six following a season that saw him develop into a genuine No 8 in midfield, as well as England team-mate Cole Palmer who, despite seeing his form curtail towards the end of the campaign, scored 15 goals and picked up nine assists.
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak is the fifth player included after helping the Magpies return to the Champions League in a season that saw him score 23 league goals – the second most in the league.
Perhaps the only surprise is Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, who, despite notching eight goals and 10 assists, saw his side finish 15th in the league standings under Ruben Amorim.
Fans questioned the call to leave out van Dijk on social media, with one writing: ‘Bruno Fernandes being here speaks volumes. Virgil van Dijk not being here speaks volumes.’
Another added: ‘Palmer? Virgil should’ve been there.’
A third posted: ‘Bruno led his team to 17th [sic]. van Dijk led his team to first but is not here. Make it make sense.’
All winners will be revealed in a ceremony in Tuesday August 19.
