Lineker picks Arsenal star over Haaland for Player of the Year

Jacque Talbot

• Updated: 21 Mar 2023 13:19 GMT
• 3 min read

Gary Lineker has snubbed Erling Haaland after revealing who he would vote for as footballer of the year.

The Manchester City striker has scored an incredible 42 goals across all competitions so far this season.

He netted a hat-trick at the weekend against Burnley in the FA Cup and equalled a Champions League record by scoring five goals during Man City's 7-0 win over RB Leipzig last week.

READ MORE: Exclusive: Arsenal to offer Odegaard fresh deal until 2030

But former Tottenham striker Lineker has stated that he has someone else in mind for the player of the year - someone who plays for a former rival of the Match of the Day pundit.

Lineker tweeted: "Two goals and an assist for the irrepressible Bukayo Saka as Arsenal march on. What a player, who, if we voted tomorrow, would get my vote for footballer of the year (yes, as a member of @theofficialfwa I do get a vote)."

Indeed, it is the imperious Arsenal star who Lineker has said he would currently vote for.

The England international, who has scored 12 goals alongside 10 assists in 28 Premier League appearances, has been one of the standout performers for Mikel Arteta’s side this season, with the Gunners baring down on their first league title since 2004.

Saka’s efforts see him rewarded with a fresh deal

It comes after reports that Arsenal are in control over an announcement of Saka's new contract.

The winger has agreed to a new deal and it’s just the small details to work out amid speculation that Manchester City were keen on signing him in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Reporter Fabrizio Romano said in his CaughtOffside column: "Saka has accepted, the new deal is ready so it’s up to the club to meet and sign the documents once final small details are sorted. But rest assured, Saka will extend."