Wayne Rooney named England Player of the Year
Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has been voted England’s Player of the Year for the fourth time after breaking his country’s scoring record, the Football Association announced on Tuesday.
The 30-year-old took his England tally to 51 goals, breaking Bobby Charlton‘s longstanding record of 49, and top-scored with seven goals as Roy Hodgson‘s side qualified for Euro 2016 with a perfect record of 10 wins.
Rooney, England’s captain, received 37 percent of the votes in a poll of England Supporters Club members. He previously won the award in 2008, 2009 and 2014.
“To win this award is always a huge honour and to win it for a fourth time is something I’m very proud of,” Rooney said on his personal website.
“The fact it’s voted for by the fans is what makes it very special for me. It’s been a great year for the team and for me personally.
“I would like to thank all the fans for their continued support and hopefully 2016 will be an even better year!”
Stoke City goalkeeper Jack Butland, who has produced some impressive performances this season, was elected the Under-21s Player of the Year.
Rooney and Butland, 22, will be presented with their awards prior to England’s friendly against Germany in Berlin on March 26.
