Premier League outfit Arsenal have, on Monday evening, unveiled the list of candidates for the club’s Player of the Season award.
The shortlist features a total of six players, spread evenly across all areas of the pitch.
First up comes Aaron Ramsdale, who of course enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in north London on the back of his widely discussed summer arrival from Sheffield United.
And following ‘Rammers’ comes another big-money addition to Mikel Arteta’s ranks, in the form of defender Ben White.
Moving into midfield, despite his at times tumultuous relationship with the Arsenal faithful, Granit Xhaka is deservedly rewarded for a fine individual campaign with his own inclusion, alongside the more attack-minded Martin Odegaard.
And last up came a pair of Hale End graduates.
Emile Smith Rowe, owing largely to his stellar form across the opening half of the campaign, is up for the prize, but viewed as altogether likely to be beaten out by another up-and-coming Gunners talent.
LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 20: Emile Smith Rowe celebrates after scoring during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on April 20, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
The player in question? Bukayo Saka.
Owing to his head-turning haul of 18 direct goal contributions in the Premier League, wide-man Saka is regarded as the runaway favourite to be named Arsenal’s standout performer in 2021/22, an outcome which would see the English international crowned for the 2nd year running.
🙌 It’s time to choose your 2021/22 Player of the Season!
🥁 The contenders…
🏴 Emile Smith Rowe
🇳🇴 Martin Odegaard
🏴 Aaron Ramsdale
🏴 Bukayo Saka
🇨🇭 Granit Xhaka
🏴 Ben White🗳 Cast your vote now 👇
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 30, 2022
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