29 August 2023 , 20:12
914
0
Rachel Daly has been crowned Player of the Year by her fellow pros.
Aston Villa star Daly won the Professional Footballers’ Association award after her stunning season in the WSL. Daly, 31, started all six games for England at left back when the Lionesses won the European Championships in the summer of 2022.
However, Daly then enjoyed a record-equalling tally of 22 goals for Villa last season in the WSL as she showed her versatility and natural ability. She also played a key role as Sarina Wiegman ’s team reached the World Cup final in Australia earlier this month which was another first for the Lionesses.
With Daly clinching the award, it ends three years of dominance from Chelsea players. Sam Kerr secured the accolade last year, following in the footsteps of Bethany England (2019-20) and Fran Kirby (2020-21).
Daly, who was unable to attend the PFA awards in Manchester, is so popular that there is a petition for the Harrogate-born star to be given a civic honour by her council.
Earps reacts to FIFA Best nomination and on season so far with Man Utd
Chelsea star Lauren James was voted Young Player of the Year as she also became a major player in the World Cup campaign. James, 21, really emerged as England’s most exciting young star as she helped Chelsea win the Double, lifting the WSL title and FA Cup.
Rachel Daly has impressed for both club and country (Daniela Porcelli/SPP/REX/Shutterstock)Chelsea star Sam Kerr was named in the WSL Team of the Year but, despite their success, the only other Chelsea representative in the XI was Guro Reiten.
Meanwhile, Lionesses legend Jill Scott was given a PFA merit award on the night. Former Arsenal hero Ian Wright got the same award but was unable to attend.
Team of the Year: Earps; Battle, Le Tissier, Greenwood, Rafaelle; Maanum, Reiten, Hasegaawa, Daly, Shaw, Kerr.