The Premier League finishing line is almost upon on us, with just six games left for some clubs. This means that speculation about who should win the player of the season has started. Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk is the current favourite to win the award, but who else could be in contention? We take a look at who could be nominated.
Player of the Season Contenders
Virgil van Dijk
The Dutch defender has been an integral part of Liverpool’s success this season. Many have labelled him the best centre-half in world football. As a result, he is one of the certainties to be nominated for Player of the Season. In the 2017/18 season, Liverpool kept 17 clean sheets. Currently, they stand on 17 for the season and are likely to surpass it with six games left. Van Dijk has played in 16 of those 17 clean sheets.
If he wins the award, he will be the first defender since Vincent Kompany in 2012 to win the player of the season award. However, he faces stern competition from other star performers in this year’s Premier League.
Raheem Sterling
Raheem Sterling has been in impressive form for the majority of the season and deserves to be nominated for the Player of the Season award. Pep Guardiola has transformed the English winger into a goal-scorer. Last season he scored 18 times and also created 11 as Manchester City won the league. This season he could surpass that, currently standing on 15 goals and 11 assists. Therefore, he is another one likely to be up there for a nomination.
Sadio Mane
Sadio Mane is currently having is best Premier League season in terms of goals to date. He currently has 17 goals, which beats his previous best of 13. Many of his strikes have come at critical times, such as his brace against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
His performances have not gone unnoticed. Real Madrid are reportedly interested in the Senegalese international. However, they may be put off by the price tag set by Liverpool.
Eden Hazard
Surprisingly, it is Eden Hazard’s best season in terms of goal contributions at Chelsea. He has 13 goals and 11 assists so far this season. It is more surprising considering Chelsea have been hit and miss under Maurizio Sarri. The Belgian has carried the Blues at times this season. As a result, he deserves to be nominated for player of the season.
Mohamed Salah
It is likely last year’s winner will be nominated again this year. While he has not lived up to last season’s 32 goals, it has still been a sensational season for the Egyptian. Mo Salah currently has 17 goals and seven assists this campaign and has been an integral part of Liverpool’s lightning attack.
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