LONDON —
Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah was awarded England’s “Footballer of the Year” for the second time in his career, while Chelsea striker Sam Kerr scooped the women’s award.
The Football Writers Association announced the winners on Friday and reported that Salah won 48% of the vote, beating Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne and West Ham midfielder Declan Rice.
The Egyptian star, who also won the award in 2018, has 30 goals and 14 assists in all competitions for Liverpool this season.
Liverpool are one point behind City in the Premier League, so it’s no surprise that their players have dominated the votes; nine members of Liverpool received votes, while City had six.
The award has gone to a Liverpool or City player in the last five seasons. City defender Rubén Días won the award last year.
The women’s prize, which was awarded for the first time in 2018, was voted on by all members of the Association for the first time. Previously it was decided by a panel of experts.
Kerr received 40% of the vote, beating Arsenal forward Vivianne Miedema and Manchester City striker Lauren Hemp.
The Australian has scored 18 goals in the Women’s Super League with point guard Chelsea and has 28 goals. Her partner Fran Kirby won the award last year.
The awards will be presented at the Association gala next Thursday.
“Both Mo and Sam have had an outstanding season, setting records both for their clubs and at national level,” said association president Carrie Brown. “In addition to their performances on the field, they are leaders and set a standard of excellence for their teams and their respective leagues.
“The fact that they have won by such convincing margins highlights how impressive their seasons have been, which has been recognized by our members.”