The PFA Awards, steeped in a five-year tradition, have unveiled the shortlist for this year’s Young Player of the Year accolade, showcasing a blend of emerging talents and familiar names in the women’s game.
The 2021/22 laureate, Lauren Hemp, aims to etch her name in the annals of history again by defending her title for a second consecutive year. However, this year’s competition is fierce, as three fresh faces join the fray, accompanied by two returning contenders, each poised to make their mark on the women’s football scene.
Chelsea’s Lauren James is nominated for the award for the second successive year. Throughout the 2022/23 campaign, she dazzled spectators with 38 appearances for the Blues across various competitions. James showcased her versatility by netting eight goals and contributing five assists, which was integral in securing the WSL title and an FA Cup final triumph for Chelsea.
Lauren Hemp is a seasoned contender with four PFA Young Player of the Year awards and returns to the nominee list. Representing Manchester City, her remarkable campaign witnessed her bagging ten goals and providing 11 assists, leaving an indelible mark on all competitions. As Hemp eyes yet another triumph, her prowess and determination remain undiminished.
Maya Le Tissier’s journey from Brighton to Manchester United has been transformative. A cornerstone of Manchester United‘s defense, Le Tissier played a pivotal role in their pursuit of WSL glory and FA Cup success. Although narrowly missing out on these titles, her efforts ensured Manchester United achieved their highest-ever league finish. Notably, they will now embark on a maiden Champions League campaign, a testament to Le Tissier’s impact.
Missy Bo Kearns’ contributions to Liverpool’s campaign were marked by five goals and two assists in 28 appearances. Her instrumental role in guiding Liverpool to a commendable seventh-place finish in the WSL highlighted her ability to shine even in challenging circumstances. Kearns’ prowess was particularly evident in the league and League Cup, where she showcased her goal-scoring acumen.
Katie Robinson’s journey with Brighton and Hove Albion was a tale of contrasting fortunes. Amid a lackluster WSL campaign, Robinson’s brilliance shone through, evident in her five goals and eight assists across 29 appearances. Their magical FA Cup journey, reaching the semi-finals, underscored Robinson’s resilience and determination to succeed on the grand stage.
Laura Blindkilde, recognized as Aston Villa‘s Young Player of the Season, left an indelible mark with 29 appearances in midfield. Her adeptness extended to the FA Cup, where her solitary goal propelled Aston Villa to the semi-finals before encountering Chelsea. Blindkilde’s presence and contribution underscored her role in Aston Villa’s impressive journey.
As the anticipation builds and the footballing community awaits the announcement of the winner, the array of talents showcased in this year’s shortlist reaffirms the growing strength of women’s football. The stage is set for one of these extraordinary young players to etch her name into history, joining a lineage of exceptional talent celebrated by the PFA Awards for over 50 years.
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