Rooney scoops Football Writers' award

Rooney has enjoyed an incredible season (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney has been voted the 2010 Footballer of the Year by the Football Writers' Association.

The 24-year-old topped the poll of journalists with just over 81% of a record votes cast, finishing ahead of Chelsea forward Didier Drogba and Manchester City's Carlos Tevez to win the prestigious accolade which has been running since 1948.

Rooney - who has led the Reds Devils' challenge to Chelsea for the Barclays Premier League title, scoring some 34 goals in all competitions - will receive his award at the FWA's gala dinner at The Lancaster London Hotel on May 13.

"I am delighted to win an award with so much history and tradition and to follow a long line of wonderful players who have been honoured by the Football Writers' Association since 1948 gives me real pride," said Rooney.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank my manager at United, Sir Alex Ferguson, the coaching staff and my team-mates, without whose help and support this award would not have been possible.

"Also a big thanks to my family and friends for their constant support which is always appreciated.

"I thank the Football Writers' Association members who voted for me and I look forward to personally collecting my award at the Footballer of the Year dinner in London on May 13."

FWA chairman Steve Bates, chief football writer for The People, commented: "Wayne is a worthy winner of our prestigious award and the margin of his victory is testimony to the marvellous season he has had for club and country.

"His tally of 34 goals so far this season is certain to have captured the attention of our members, but I am sure the overall improvement in his game at Manchester United has been of equal significance.

"Wayne's enthusiasm, hunger and desire mark him out as a special player and we hope he can carry his club form onto the international stage in the World Cup this summer to help England achieve their dream.

"We now look forward to saluting Wayne at our dinner."

Rooney was last week named the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year.