Chelsea's Ashley Cole - 2010 Player of the Year - World Cup Blog

Despite being jeered by the Wembley faithful in the past and having his public image affected by matters in his private life, left-back Cole – one of the few England players to return from last summer’s World Cup with his reputation intact – topped a poll on the FA’s website to win the honour ahead of midfielders Gerrard and Johnson.

The poll, now in its eighth year, saw fans pick the best performer in an England shirt during the previous 12 months,

England manager Fabio Capello used a total of 44 players during 12 games in 2010, of which Cole missed just three – all friendlies against Egypt, Mexico and France.

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney won the award in 2009 and 2008, while Gerrard picked up the prize in 2007.