Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs has been named Professional Footballers’ Association Player of the Year - while Aston Villa's Ashley Young picked up the Young Player of the Year award.

The 35-year-old Giggs had picked up the young player’s award twice but has now been voted for the top accolade for the first time by his fellow professionals following his exemplary season, which looks likely to end with his 11th Premier League title.

“It’s right up there, with personal accolades it’s the best to have as it’s voted by your fellow players,” Giggs said. “I’ve been fortunate to win a lot of trophies, I won the young player award twice, but this is the big one.”

Giggs has only started 12 league games this season but has been a regular in the squad for all competitions, with the award acknowledging the respect he has from opponents.

Villa winger Young believes his award is a sign of the progress his club have made this season.

“It’s a massive achievement for the club and my team-mates around me,” Young said. “It’s a great honour and I’m delighted.”

Former Grimsby full back John McDermott was the recipient of the Special Merit Award after playing his entire career - and 754 games - for The Mariners. He retired at the end of the 2006-07 season.

Premier League team of the year: Van der Sar, G Johnson, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, A Young, Gerrard, Giggs, Ronaldo, Anelka, Torres