Keane in running for PFA award

ROY KEANE was yesterday shortlisted for the Professional Footballers Association (PFA) Player of the Year awards, the winners…

ROY KEANE was yesterday shortlisted for the Professional Footballers Association (PFA) Player of the Year awards, the winners of which will be revealed on Sunday week.

The Republic of Ireland and Manchester United midfielder is joined in the shortlist by United team mate David Beckham, Liverpool's Steve McManaman, Newcastle's Alan Shearer, Arsenal's Ian Wright and Chelsea's Gianfranco Zola. Beckham, 21, is also shortlisted for the PFA Young Player of the Year award.

After a difficult early season, during which he was sidelined by injury, Keane's performances have been instrumental in Manchester United's climb to the top of the Premiership and their progress to the European Cup semifinals. Liam Brady (Arsenal, 1979) and Paul McGrath (Aston Villa, 1993) are the only Republic of Ireland internationals to have won the award.