Error code: %{errorCode}

Soccer

Former striker names his player and young player of the season in the Premier League

Ash Rose
Former striker names his player and young player of the season in the Premier LeagueDAZN
Who has been the league's standout stars?
Ally McCoist has named the player he thinks has been the best in the Premier League this season. 

With awards season right around the corner, a number of leading names are set to be front-runners for individual honours at the end of the campaign. Liverpool's Mohamed Salah has been talked about, along with Arsenal pair Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard and Manchester City's Rodri. 

However, speaking to talkSPORT Bet, the former Scotland striker stated that his vote would go to another one of Pep Guardiola's star names, Phil Foden. 

He said: "When I think about picking a Premier League Player of the Season, instantly my mind goes to Arsenal because Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka have been tremendous, whilst Declan Rice has had a phenomenal season.

“However, I would be leaning towards Phil Foden because these awards tend to go to more attack-minded players. Rodri is unbelievable at what he does but I’d have to side with Foden.

"He is one of my favourite players to watch – I can’t say enough about how much I enjoy watching him and Jude Bellingham playing together for England. He’s an absolute joy to watch. I can’t remember any other player who receives the ball so comfortably and is as easy on the eye as him. There is something poetic about the way he plays – he’s just brilliant!”

As for Young Player of the Year, McCoist was tempted to go with Foden once again. But instead, the pundit has put forward Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, who believes has not just been the best young star, but is also ready for a big move this summer. 

Adding: "When it comes to the Young Player of the Season, obviously Phil Foden certainly springs to mind, but I want to give a mention to Jarrad Branthwaite, who has also been brilliant.

"I’d look no further than him to be honest and I think he’s done enough to earn a big move in the summer. Everton fans won’t thank me for saying it, but it looks like they might have to sell him in the summer for Financial Fair Play reasons. 

“James Tarkowski has raved about him in the past, saying he could play at any level, and now he’s got himself into the England squad. I actually thought he might’ve been given a runout against Belgium but it wasn’t to be.

"Is he ready to play at the highest level for a team like Manchester City? Absolutely. I don’t think he’d have any problems at a bigger club.”

Live on DAZN: Hitchins vs. Lemos on April 6.  Click here for details.

Watch on YouTube