Liverpool: Why Luis Suarez Should Win PFA Player of the Year Award
Luis Suarez has managed to gain a bad boy image amongst the press since his arrival in England, but let's not let that take away from the magic he has produced in the process.
The Uruguayan is currently atop the scoring charts with 22 goals in 28 Premier League matches and looks set to continue his rich vein of form.
Without Suarez, Liverpool have looked like a desperate side in dire need of creativity and a finishing touch.
No. 7's tireless work ethic paired with his ability to squeeze in and out of tight situations has been a defender's worst nightmare this campaign, with Newcastle's Steven Taylor going so far as to say (via the Mirror), "He’s a brilliant player, some of the goals he scores are unbelievable, and as a defender, he’s one of the trickiest centre-forwards out there you’ll come across."
The PFA (Professional Footballers' Association) Player of the Year shortlist will be announced sometime in mid-to-late April, and Suarez will likely face stiff competition from Manchester United's Robin Van Persie, Tottenham's Gareth Bale and Swansea City's Michu.
All four candidates have had prolific seasons for their respective clubs, but when it comes down to it, goals are a precious commodity and Suarez has delivered the most of them.
(2012/13 goals start at 3:26)
In terms of team play, his defensive awareness is second to none. He tracks opposition defenders running through the midfield, gets back to support on corners and constantly chases balls up top.
When speaking to the press after Liverpool's 3-2 win over Tottenham, Steven Gerrard made clear that if his Uruguayan colleague doesn't receive the honor he will be (via the Telegraph), "the best player ever not to win an award."
Regardless of whether Suarez is recognized for his achievements, one thing is for certain. The man is a world-class striker and is slowly but surely attaining legendary status amongst the Kop.
