Manchester United loanee wins PFA Young Player of the Year

Manchester United midfielder Grace Clinton has won the PFA Young Player of the Year award following a season-long loan at Tottenham Hotspur.

Clinton fended off competition from several talented stars, including Manchester United team-mate Maya Le Tissier, to win the prize. The other candidates were Aggie Beever-Jones, Lauren James, Khiara Keating and Jesse Park.

However, Clinton’s performances were not in a Red shirt. She spent last season on loan at Tottenham, making eight-goal contributions as they finished sixth in the WSL.

The midfielder’s performance earned her a place in the England squad as she made her debut against Austria.

United are likely to keep Clinton as part of Marc Skinner’s squad this season.

Speaking the PFA awards, Clinton said: “It’s such an honour to be voted by the unbelievable players that play in this league. It’s the best league in the world…

“To go out on loan, learning as a young player and being recognised is lovely. I’ve played with confidence and when you play with that then you see the best version of a player.

“Tottenham have been a massive part of my journey, and I can’t thank them enough.”

She added: “Goals and visualisation are important to me but most of all just enjoying playing. If I’m enjoying myself then I play my best football.”

Tottenham reached the FA Cup final, but Clinton was unable to play due to being ineligible against her parent club at Wembley. United’s women team won their first major honour that day in what was a memorable occasion for Skinner’s side.

Skinner will be aiming for a stronger WSL campaign this time around.

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