It was Charles Buchan, the publisher and writer of Football Monthly as well as one of the founding fathers of the FWA, who suggested that an award should be given “to the professional player who by precept and example is considered by a ballot of members to be the footballer of the year.”

That was back in 1947 and since then the Footballer of the Year Award has become the most prestigious award in the British game.

Voted for year on year by the FWA members, the first recipient was the legendary Sir Stanley Matthews and ever since players have been honoured for their achievements.

Women’s Footballer of the Year Award

This award was set up in 2018 to honour the best women footballers playing in England. The inaugural winner was Fran Kirby of Chelsea.

THIS YEAR’S WINNER

Nikita Parris of Manchester City won by the narrowest of margins – one vote – against  Vivianne Miedema of Arsenal. The City and England striker was a deserved winner in a poll of FWA members who regularly cover women’s football.

FWA Tribute Award

The FWA Tribute Award is presented on an annual basis to an individual that the committee feels has made an outstanding contribution to the national game.

The Award is presented at a gala dinner at The Savoy hotel every January.