Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer has cautioned Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice that even winning the Premier League title may not be enough to secure the Player of the Year award ahead of Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes.
Shearer noted that both players have been exceptional this season and are strong contenders for the individual honour.
Fernandes, in particular, has been instrumental for Manchester United, contributing 16 assists and eight goals so far, while also driving the team’s push for a Champions League spot in the latter part of the campaign.
“I think two outstanding candidates also would be Declan Rice and Bruno Fernandes,” Shearer told Betfair.
“Man United have been through everything this season but Bruno seems to have been the shining light and God knows where they’d be without him. He’s been a fantastic player for them.
“However, with Declan Rice, the way he’s dragged Arsenal through games as well. I think it depends on what will happen in terms of teams winning.
“If Arsenal were to win the treble or a double, depending on what that double may be, then it would probably have to be an Arsenal player, and Rice has been one of the standouts.”
He suggested that the final outcome of team achievements could play a decisive role in determining who ultimately claims the award.
