The Football Writers Association is today pleased to annouce that Wayne Rooney has been voted our 2010 Footballer of the Year.

The Manchester United and England striker was an overwhelming winner with just over 80% of all votes cast by FWA members in the largest poll ever recorded in the organisation's history.

A thrilled Rooney said today:"I am delighted to win an award with so much history and tradition and to follow a long line of wonderful players who have been honoured by the FWA since 1948 gives me real pride.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank my manager at United Sir Alex Ferguson,the coaching staff and my team mates without whose help and support this award would not have been possible.

"Also a big thanks to my family and friends for their constant support which is always appreciated.

"I thank the Football Writers Association members who voted for me and I look forward to personally collecting my award at the Footballer of the Year dinner in London on May 13."

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba was second in the voting with Manchester City's Argentinian star Carlos Tevez third.

On announcing the news FWA Chairman Steve Bates said:"Wayne is a worthy winner of our prestigous award and the margin of his victory is testimony to the marvelous season he has had for club and country.

"His tally of 34 goals so far this season is certain to have captured the attention of our members but I am sure the overall improvement in his game at Manchester United has been of equal significance.

"Wayne's enthusiasm, hunger and desire mark him out as a special player and we hope he can carry his club form onto the international stage in the World Cup this summer and help England achieve their dream.

We now look forward to saluting Wayne at our dinner later this month."