Chelsea forward Cole Palmer, Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, and Arsenal star Bukayo Saka have been shortlisted for the Premier League Young Player of the Season award.

The contenders for the prestigious award were announced by the Premier League on Thursday.

Palmer is the second-highest scorer in the Premier League with 21 goals, while Mainoo has forced his way into the England squad after starring for the Red Devils.

Premier League title rivals Arsenal also had two of their stars shortlisted. Saka, who is the side’s top scorer this season, and William Saliba, who forms one-half of the league’s best defence.

Manchester City duo Erling Haaland and Phil Foden were also named among the nominees.

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The pair have won the last three awards, with Foden taking home the prize in 2021 and 2022 before Haaland was recognised for his stunning debut campaign last season.

Newcastle striker Alexander Isak and Tottenham defender Destiny Udogie complete the eight-man roster.

Isak scored his 20th goal of the Premier League season in only his 27th game in last weekend’s 4-1 win over Burnley.

Udogie, on the other hand, enjoyed a brilliant debut campaign for Spurs and has proved to be crucial to Ange Postecoglou’s swashbuckling attacking approach.

Players aged 23 and younger at the start of the season are eligible for the Premier League Young Player of the Season award.

Fans have the chance to help select the winner by casting their vote on the league’s website.

Voting closes at Midday on May 13. The votes from the public will be combined with those of a panel of football experts to decide the winner, who will be revealed on Saturday, May 18.

The Star