Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney claimed his second major award of a remarkable season Friday when he was named Footballer of the Year for the first time by the Football Writers Association (FWA). Rooney, who has scored 34 goals for United in all competitions this season, took 80 percent of the votes cast by members of the FWA. Chelsea striker Didier Drogba was a distant second in the voting with Manchester City's Argentine frontman Carlos Tevez in third position. "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 honored by the FWA since 1948 gives me real pride," Rooney said. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank my manager at United Sir Alex Ferguson, the coaching staff and my teammates without whose help and support this award would not have been possible." Rooney, who was voted PFA Player of the Year Sunday and also the Premier League's fans Player of the Season this week, has successfully filled the void left by the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid although the tail end of his season has been interrupted by injury. He is unlikely to play in United's final two Premier League games as it tries and overhaul Chelsea at the top of the table because of a groin strain having recovered quicker than expected from an ankle injury. "Wayne is a worthy winner of our prestigious award and the margin of his victory is testimony to the marvellous season he has had for club and country," FWA chairman Steve Bates said on announcing the award. "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 on to the international stage in the World Cup this summer and help England achieve their dream." Rooney will be presented with his trophy in London on May 13. Neville extends contract Manchester United defender Gary Neville has signed a one-year contract extension with the defending Premier League champions. The 35-year-old Neville, who has been with United for 18 seasons, missed almost two seasons with muscular problems. But he has been a key member of this season's squad as United tries to win a fourth straight league title. Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson says Neville's "contribution has been fantastic. ... What Gary has achieved after being out of the game for 18 months, in his 30s, is astonishing." United is in second place in the league, one point behind Chelsea with two games remaining.
