LONDON (AFP) - Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was named the Football Writers' Association (FWA) player of the year on Friday (July 24) for leading the Reds to their first top-flight league title in 30 years.

The 30-year-old beat Manchester City's Kevin de Bruyne, Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford and teammates Virgil van Dijk and Sadio Mane to the prize.

As well as making his presence felt in 30 Premier League games this season as Liverpool have surged to the title with an 18-point lead at the top of the table, Henderson led by example off the pitch during football's three-month shutdown due to the coronavirus crisis.

He spearheaded the PlayersTogether initiative during the lockdown, which saw footballers from various teams coming together to raise money for Britain's National Health Service.

"I accept it on behalf of this whole squad, because without them I'm not in a position to be receiving this honour. These lads have made me a better player, a better leader and a better person," said Henderson.

"If anything I hope those who voted for me did so partly to recognise the entire team's contribution."

As well as the top five, 10 other players received votes from FWA members.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson Becker, Raheem Sterling, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Sergio Aguero, Adama Traore, Danny Ings, Jack Grealish, James Maddison and Jonny Evans were also nominated.