Awards success for Toon

Last updated : 28 April 2003 By Martyn Elliott

Alan Shearer was named the Premiership player of the decade, Jermaine Jenas won the PFA young player of the year award, Sir Bobby was handed the PFA Merit award and Shearer and Kieron Dyer were named in the PFA team of the year.

On receiving his award Shearer said: "It is a tremendous honour to have been voted the Overall Best Player in the FA Premier League over the past 10 seasons and I would like to sincerely thank all of the people who were kind enough to vote for me.

"Given the number of top-quality players who have graced our League since its inception, it really fills me with immense pride to have been given this award.

"I remember vividly the first game I had in the Premier League back in August 1992, when I was with Blackburn Rovers, and was fortunate enough to score twice - and what a 10 seasons it’s been for me since then. Despite the injuries and odd disappointing moment along the way, no one could have written a better script for me."

JJ was delighted to have seen off competition from Craig Bellamy, Manchester United’s John O’Shea and Everton substitute Wayne Rooney to win his award.

"This is a great honour for me, it is a massive achievement after being at Newcastle for such a short space of time," he said.

"For other players to recognise my performances is a great feeling and I am very proud.

"It’s been an incredible year for me. I’ve played more games for Newcastle than I imagined I would. I’ve also played in the Champions League and even been picked to play for my country, but I would have to say that winning this award is the highlight of my season."

And just like Al and JJ, Sir Bobby was thrilled to receive his reward, commenting: "This is a wonderful surprise and a trophy I will treasure. It encases memories for me, it is overwhelming really."