Wayne Rooney has been named England's Player of the Year after his stellar form with the Three Lions in the past 12 months. The Manchester United striker was voted in to win the award by England fans on The FA's official website.

"I am absolutely delighted to win this award, especially as it has been voted for by the England fans," Rooney said.

"Having said that, it would not have been possible without the help and support of my England team-mates, Fabio Capello and his coaching staff.

"It's an amazing feeling, playing for your country. So to be voted player of the year is a great feeling and I'd like to thank all the fans who voted for me.

"Since the manager came in the routine has changed and the team has started playing a lot better football. The main aim was to get the wins in those qualifying games and we did that, and thankfully I was able to score some goals as well. So overall I think 2008 was a good year for England.

"The results on the road last year have put us in a good position and now we have some massive games coming up at Wembley.

"If the fans can show the same level of support and commitment they showed last year - and again on Saturday - it will be a big help to the players. To play at Wembley with the fans and country behind us is amazing and I can't stress enough how important their support and encouragement is."