The exceptional performances of Beth England were rewarded with an individual accolade, as she collecyed the PFA Player of the Year award.
England beat Arsenal’s Dutch superstar Vivianne Miedema, who finished as the WSL’s top scorer for the second consecutive season.
Beth England Wins Women’s PFA Player of the Year
Her Season
The forward had a remarkable season with Chelsea, winning the Women’s Super League and League Cup.
She scored a 92nd minute winner against Arsenal to clinch the cup. As well as that, she scored in nine consecutive matches from November to February.
England’s contribution was key in Chelsea’s title-winning campaign ending the season as the Blue’s top scorer with 21 in total.
England said: “The team cohesion as a group, we fought for everything we had.
“The girls were tremendous, thankfully we had a great year and hopefully it continues.”
Confidence Flourished After Loan Move
Initially, England failed to make an impact at Chelsea and had to fight back from a loan spell at Liverpool.
At Liverpool England transformed from a struggling left-back to a sensational striker.
England made a huge impact, with 10 goals in 16 matches for the Reds.
“Going to Liverpool gave me the opportunity to just work on a set position, get minutes in the bank and prove what I can do,” England said.
Her patience was rewarded, as she returned to Chelsea for the 2018/2019 season. A remarkable season saw her score an astonishing 22 goals.
Praise From Her Manager
Deemed as one of the best players in world football, England reflects a player with a strong work ethic.
When speaking about England’s journey to BBC Sport, Chelsea manager Emma Hayes said: “I love the story because she earnt it.
“There’s nothing more joyful when a player who you don’t really know if they’re going to cut it at the top level gets their head down and puts everything into their career.”
England added: “A lot of people that know me know my confidence was always something I did battle with and I have had a lot of people help to try and boost that.
“Thankfully, I am in a position now where I am much more grown up, I would say mentally as well as physically.’”
The forward has become England’s most in-form striker after exploding on the scene.
The Chelsea striker set the tone for an extraordinary 2019/2020 season with a stunning 30-yard strike against Tottenham, which was played in front of a crowd of over 25,000.
The powerful, ruthless forward is a dangerous player in and around the box with the ability to drift wide and cross the ball for others.
England’s variety of goals is outstanding. Her repertoire long-range shots to delicate tap ins and powerful headers.
Kevin De Bruyne Becomes the First Manchester City Player to Win the Men’s PFA Award
De Bruyne beat team-mate Raheem Sterling to claim the prize.
The prestigious award is voted for by his fellow professionals who recognised his formidable form last season.
At the virtual ceremony, De Bruyne said: “It is a big honour.
“To be voted by your colleagues, your competitors from other teams who we play against on the field, is amazing.”
Last season, the Belgian equalled Thierry Henry’s 17-year record for the number of assists (20) in the Premier League.
De Bruyne’s sensational season saw him create the most chances (136) and was involved in 33 goals, more than any other player in the League.
De Bruyne became the second player from Belgium to win the individual award, following in the footsteps of Eden Hazard.
Main Photo
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