Rio Ferdinand snubs Arsenal and Liverpool stars in Premier League Player of the Season shortlist

Rio Ferdinand has excluded Mohamed Salah, Erling Haaland, and Bukayo Saka from his selection of candidates for the Premier League Player of the Season accolade.

These three players have been among the most successful performers in the English league this season, collectively contributing to a total of 69 goals and assists. Salah played a crucial role in leading Liverpool to the first position in the Premier League by achieving important victories against Arsenal and Manchester City. However, his contribution was interrupted in January due to a hamstring injury.

With the title race intensifying, Liverpool fans are anxiously anticipating the comeback of their Egyptian superstar. However, Haaland has been spearheading the attack for Pep Guardiola’s squad, with exceptional displays against Chelsea, Manchester United, and Liverpool.

Although he failed to convert a couple significant opportunities, the Norwegian striker continues to be one of the most formidable attackers in the league. Saka has played a crucial role in Arsenal’s resurgent pursuit of the title, delivering impressive performances against Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea, and Liverpool.

The Gunners came close to securing the English championship last season, but they were unable to cope with the strain and ultimately surrendered the top position to the team that won three major titles. Contrarily, Ferdinand has selected Phil Foden and Ollie Watkins as the standout performers of this season, disregarding other prominent individuals.

During his appearance on TNT Sports prior to Manchester City’s Champions League match against FC Copenhagen, he expressed his affirmation on Foden by stating, “I would indeed say yes.” He is unquestionably part of that group. When considering the Player of the Season, who else comes to mind? The Manchester Evening News notes that there is no one who stands out or is particularly impressive.

“Perhaps Ollie Watkins?” In my opinion, this individual is now the most successful in their field. However, there is still a significant amount of time remaining in the season, and it is crucial to do really well in the final stretch. He is accustomed to it, since he possesses sufficient expertise and is currently in a position of control to secure that trophy.

Joleon Lescott also expressed high praise for Foden. The former Manchester City player also stated: “His exceptional talent was evident to anyone, and it would have been apparent to anyone.”

“However, in his presence, one observes an intense fixation on self-improvement and a relentless pursuit of excellence.” That is a rare trait that is not commonly observed in individuals, and I have not witnessed it in many players. Phil Foden aspires to achieve the highest level of excellence and he is deeply fixated on attaining that level of greatness.