Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has revealed that his vote went to Chelsea counterpart Diego Costa in the race for last season’s PFA Player of the Year award, the Metro reports.
The Spanish international, who is set to lead the line against England when their two countries meet on Friday night, cuts a polarising figure in the Premier League due to his ability to not only score goals regularly, but rub opposition defenders up the wrong way.
And though Costa has struggled for form this season, bagging just three goals for Chelsea in the Premier League, Rooney has reiterated his admiration for the 27-year-old by paying tribute to his debut campaign in England that saw him notch up 20 goals en route to the title.
“I actually voted for him as player of the year last season because I think he was a huge player for Chelsea,” Rooney said.
“I think what Chelsea missed the season before was that fight up front and he gave them that and I strongly believe that’s why they became champions.
“Obviously it hasn’t gone as well as it did last season for him but I think he is a fantastic player.”
SEE MORE:
Ten toughest tackers in 2015/16: Liverpool duo and Chelsea bruiser combine to keep clean sheets
Remember when Chelsea were good? Ranking their 15 biggest Premier League legends
Three signings that would GUARANTEE Arsenal are title contenders this season