Raul Meireles - PFA Fans' Player of the Year

Liverpool FC's Raul Meireles scoops PFA Fans' Player of the Year award

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My initial reaction was “Isn’t it a bit late for April fools?” but apparently this is genuine.

So what the hell is the PFA Fans’ Player of the Year award anyway? Apparently it is voted for by fans from a shortlist nominated by the PFA. I’m a fan and I wasn’t balloted. Who are the fans that voted? Has anyone seen one?

The award started in 2001 and past winners include Gerrard (x2), van Nistelrooy, Henry (x2), Lampard, Rooney (x2) and Ronaldo (x2). I’ve nothing against our Raul but who are the fans that think he belongs in this company after that season?

“The Portugal international has enjoyed an impressive first season in England after making a £11.5million switch from Porto.”
Has he? Granted his goal return was impressive between mid-January and mid-February but that golden period aside, has he really been “impressive”?

At times this season I’ve wondered if he is the next Bruno Cheyrou. Harsh? Remember in 2004 Bruno also had an uncharacteristic goal-scoring streak just after New Year including a goal at Wolves and a winner at Chelsea before reverting to his role as a passenger, usually on the left side of midfield. I think Raul is a better player than Bruno but I’m far from convinced he should be anything more than a squad player next season (assuming we strengthen the midfield).

I’d call it a decent first season for him in a pretty rank season from the team’s perspective. I’m not wishing to have a go at Raul but I think it’s ridiculous that he has even been nominated, let alone won this award. I wouldn’t list him in my top 3 Liverpool players of the season.