Clare Polkinghorne leads nominees for Football Media Association award

The Football Media Association have named their nominees for the International Player of the Year (Women) with Matildas co-captain Clare Polkinghorne leading the five player shortlist.

Introduced last year, the award recognises the ”outstanding Australian international player" for the 2012/13 international calendar.

Here is our look at the five nominees (in alphabetical order):

Stephanie Catley

In 18 months Catley has come out of the ranks of promising juniors to lock down a starting berth at left back in the Matildas line up.  An impressive feat considering she was replacing a FIFA World Cup All Star in that position.  Mobile and pacy with attacking verve, Catley is maturing well into a role she is still learning.

Brianna Davey

With more experienced goalkeepers out of the running for various reasons, the starting goalkeeper spot was vacant and for the taking.  With the authority she demonstrates in claiming a corner, 19 year old Davey stepped up and claimed the no. 1 jersey with an composure beyond her years and experience.

Michelle Heyman

Putting a disappointing W-League campaign behind her, Heyman slotted into Hesterine de Reus' Matildas line up as the preferred target striker.  Physically strong and with a strikers instinct, Heyman resolutely lead the Matildas line.

Sam Kerr

With her first W-League title in her hands, 20 year old Kerr took her attacking, quick and exciting brand of football overseas with great effect.  First with great performances in the NWSL before bringing that increased confidence and maturity back to the Matildas as one of the top attacking threats out on the wing.

Clare Polkinghorne

Always a consistent and reliable performer, Polkinghorne reflected her elevation in status in her game.  Deployed as central defender in de Reus' Matildas, Polkinghorne has been stellar and is a large part of the Matildas rise this year to World No. 8.