Arsenal winger Robert Pires was today named the English Football Writers' Association Player of the Year.
Pires has not played for the London club since injuring his knee against Newcastle in mid-March. The France international will also miss the World Cup.
Pires won the award by five votes from Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy. David Beckham finished a close third.
Thierry Henry was placed fourth with Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia finishing fifth.
