PFA Player of the Year: It’s Time to Get Realistic About Voting
The PFA Player of the Year award is one of the most prestigious honors in English football, as voted on by the players themselves. Ahead of the ceremony at the Opera House in Manchester, we’re taking a closer look at the voting process and the potential manipulation that comes with it.
Ballot Box Shenanigans at Chelsea
Former Chelsea ace Graeme Le Sux dropped a bombshell in an interview with The Athletic, revealing the lengths he’d go to get his teammates’ votes. According to Le Sux, he’d threaten teammates who refused to fill out their ballots and even had to physically grab a few to ensure they voted on time. "It was like being a schoolteacher chasing kids for their homework," he recalled.
Tactic Voting and Unconscious Bias
When asked about the voting process in their own experiences, Le Sux admits that players tend to vote tactically and that rivalries and past incidents can influence their decisions. "Definitely, players will hold a grudge, and if someone booted them in a game, they’re probably not voting for them," he said.
This Year’s Contenders and the Possibility of a Win
This year’s shortlisted players include Phil Foden, Erling Haaland, Rodri, and more. Haaland is looking for the second time to win the top prize, a feat achieved only a handful of times by the likes of Ronaldo and Henry.
The Reality Checks
So, what does the debate surrounding the PFA Player of the Year award mean for the players voting? In reality, it’s a snapshot of the sport’s complex internal dynamics. While we celebrate individuals’ achievements, we must acknowledge that football is a game of emotions as much as skills.
Join the Conversation
What do you think about the PFA Player of the Year award? Do you think personal biases influence the voting process? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!
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