Aston Villa midfielder James Milner was named the PFA Young Player of the Year at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel.
The 24-year old was voted by fellow players as the best young player for season 2009/10, having helped guide Villa into the top six with his sublime passing and strong presence in central midfield.
PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor praised Milner for the steady progress he has made over the past couple of years when congratulating him on the award.
“We at the PFA have followed James’ career with great interest ever since he approached us for advice as a teenager, and he has been a key member of the Player Management Agency ever since,” Taylor said.
“We are proud of the progress he has made throughout his career, and particular this season when he has positively blossomed in the central midfield role Martin O’Neill so astutely felt he was tailor-made for.
“We are also delighted that, after playing a record number of games for the England Under 21s, he has finally got his chance at the highest level.”