Only Andy Gray (1997) and Cristiano Ronaldo (2007) have managed it before, with Rooney in line to become the first player to win the award, for players aged 23 and under at the start of the season three times, having already done so in 2005 and 2006.

Here, Press Association Sport lists the four men named, with a word of praise from PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor.

CESC FABREGAS (Arsenal)

"In contention for both awards. He has come through remarkably well. He has had a season interrupted by serious injury yet to still make the impact he has is indicative of his quality."

JOE HART (Manchester City, on loan at Birmingham)

"He has shown the benefits of the loan system. It is much better for him to be playing first-team football. I am really pleased he has been given that opportunity. He has not let Alex McLeish down and has the world in front of him."

JAMES MILNER (Aston Villa)

"I feel really proud of James. His parents came to us for help and advice from a very early age. He was determined to make it to the top. People have said he is a water-carrier. He is a lot more than that."

WAYNE ROONEY (Manchester United)

"Won young player in 2005 and 2006, so he was making an impact then. He was that boy wonder. I have seen that maturity develop. Sometimes you can't believe how good he is. You just hope he can leave something in the tank for the summer."