Beattie nominated for PFA award

Last updated : 17 April 2003 By Christian Kelly
Beattie faces stiff competition from Thierry Henry, Ruud van Nistelrooy, Alan Shearer and Gianfranco Zola and Paul Scholes.
While many will obviously look to the European exploits of many on the list, it stresses what an important contribution James has made to the Saints team and also how favorably that contribution is viewed by his peers in the game.

On his nomination, Beattie said: "It's no coincidence that the four leading scorers in the Premiership are in the list.

"I think that's a reflection on what a tough job scoring goals in the top flight is, and how important strikers are.

"The fact that the nominations come from your fellow professionals is also an appreciation of how they regard you, and that makes it a bit more special.

"I've managed to hold my own against some great strikers when it comes to scoring Premiership goals this season, and I like to think my fellow pros have recognised that."