Chelsea and Man City Dominate PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year Shortlist

The race for the PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year award is intensifying, with Chelsea FC Women and Manchester City Women dominating the shortlist. Among the six nominees, three are Lionesses—Lauren James, Lauren Hemp, and Niamh Charles—each aiming to secure this prestigious honor for the first time in their careers. This year’s list reflects the outstanding performances and key contributions these players made during the thrilling 2023-24 Women’s Super League (WSL) season.

Chelsea’s Nominees: Excellence on Display

Chelsea FC Women, who secured their fifth consecutive WSL title, have three players nominated for the PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year award: Lauren James, Niamh Charles, and Erin Cuthbert. Each of these players played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s success, showcasing their talent and resilience throughout the season. Lauren James has had an incredible season, stepping up as one of Chelsea’s most influential players. After winning the PFA Women’s Young Player of the Year award last season, James took her game to new heights, becoming a crucial part of Chelsea’s attacking force. Her creativity, vision, and ability to score crucial goals made her a standout performer in the WSL, making her a strong contender for this prestigious award

Niamh Charles, originally a forward, has impressively adapted to her defensive role, becoming a key player in Chelsea’s backline. Despite being a defender, Charles contributed significantly to Chelsea’s attack, with her assist tally only bettered by Manchester City’s Lauren Hemp. Her defensive work, combined with her offensive contributions, highlights her versatility and importance to Chelsea’s title-winning campaign. Erin Cuthbert has long been one of Chelsea’s most consistent performers, often going under the radar despite her critical role in the team. This season, Cuthbert’s leadership came to the fore, especially in the absence of captain Millie Bright. Cuthbert’s ability to control the midfield, coupled with her defensive and offensive contributions, made her an invaluable asset to Chelsea and a deserving nominee for this award.

Manchester City’s Finalists: A Season of Impact

Manchester City Women, who finished just behind Chelsea in the WSL title race, also have three players on the shortlist: Lauren Hemp, Yui Hasegawa, and Khadija Shaw. Each of these players had a significant impact on City’s campaign, showcasing their individual brilliance and contributing to the team’s overall success. Lauren Hemp has had her best season to date in the WSL, with 11 goals and eight assists to her name. Hemp’s performances were instrumental in making Manchester City one of the most potent attacking teams in the league. Known for her speed, dribbling skills, and finishing ability, Hemp’s progression into one of the league’s top players has been remarkable, making her a strong contender for the PFA Women’s Players’ Player of the Year award.

Yui Hasegawa, the engine of Manchester City’s midfield, has been a revelation this season. Her ability to dictate play, maintain composure under pressure, and make crucial interceptions made her a standout player in the WSL. Hasegawa’s work rate and tactical intelligence were key factors in City’s title challenge, earning her a well-deserved spot on the shortlist. Khadija Shaw, Manchester City’s prolific striker, was the top scorer in the WSL for the 2023-24 season, netting an incredible 21 goals in just 18 appearances. Shaw’s goal-scoring prowess, combined with her ability to create chances for her teammates and contribute defensively during set-pieces, makes her one of the most complete forwards in the league. Her performances have been nothing short of outstanding, making her a favorite for this award.

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