THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
LONDON — Scott Parker’s tireless midfield displays for West Ham were rewarded Friday when he was voted the 2011 Footballer of the Year by England’s football writers.
The England international topped the poll of journalists to win the prestigious award ahead of Tottenham winger Gareth Bale, who was last week voted Player of the Year by his fellow professionals.
The 30-year-old Parker, who will receive the accolade at a gala dinner on May 12, has been the standout performer for a West Ham side that is battling against relegation from the Premier League.
"He has been an inspirational figure for the Irons and hopefully his professionalism will be rewarded with West Ham staying up at the end of the season," said Steve Bates, chairman of the Football Writers Association.
West Ham is level with bottom side Wolverhampton Wanderers in the table, two points off 17th place and the last non-relegation spot.
Primarily a holding midfielder, Parker has also scored seven goals in all competitions this season. But it is his boundless energy, influence on his teammates and reading of the game that have caught the eye, earning him a recall to the England team for recent games against Denmark and Wales.
Parker, who has also played for Chelsea and Newcastle, is the first West Ham player to win the award since England captain Bobby Moore in 1964.