Wembley 'Oscars' night for players

Almost 40,000 players around the world will have the chance to vote for their fantasy football team, with the winners honoured at football's equivalent of the Oscars.

Almost 40,000 players around the world will have the chance to vote for their fantasy football team, with the winners honoured at football's equivalent of the Oscars.

The international players' association launched the FIFPRO World XI Player Awards yesterday. The ceremony will be held on 19 September at the Wembley Conference Centre, and annually after that.

"There are no greater footballing critics than the players themselves," said FIFPro's president Gordon Taylor. "To be recognised by your fellow professionals from across the world will be a unique honour."

Chelsea's John Terry also offered his support, saying: "I'll definitely put it in the diary."

Other awards to be voted on will include Player of the Year and a World XI Legend. A Young Player of the Year will be chosen by the fans. There will be no Manager of the Year award.