Scholes gets my vote for top award, admits Henry

THIERRY HENRY knows a thing or two about what it takes to earn the respect of your fellow pros to be crowned PFA Player of the Year — and reckons Paul Scholes has the game to top everyone this season.

The Arsenal captain was the winner of the prestigious accolade in both 2003 and 2004.

Manchester United midfielder Scholes, 32, is on the six-man shortlist along with Henry’s team-mate Cesc Fabregas, Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ryan Giggs and last year’s winner Steven Gerrard.

United winger Ronaldo, 22, is the bookmakers favourite and, like Fabregas, is also nominated for the PFA’s young player award.

For Henry, however, it is the contribution Scholes has made following his return to fitness with the Premiership leaders after a long lay off because of blurred vision which stands him out this season.

“Good luck to Cesc, but obviously I am not allowed to vote for a team-mate, my vote went to Paul Scholes,” said the Arsenal captain.

“You saw how much Manchester United missed him last season, and you have seen what a difference he has made when he has come back this year.”

Henry — currently sidelined himself through injury — has, though, been impressed by the form of Ronaldo.

He added: “If Cristiano Ronaldo does not win the main award, I think he should take the young player award.

“All he was missing was goals and assists — but he has added that this year so I would be very surprised if he does not win it.”