Alexander Isak has been named as the men’s Player of the Year at the North East Football Writers Awards.

The Sweden international has been touted as one of the best strikers in Europe, having registered 15 goals for the Magpies this term.

He has played an instrumental part in firing Eddie Howe’s side into both Champions League contention and was also named winner of both the Premier League Player of the Month and Goal of the Month for December.

Isak placed ahead of teammate Anthony Gordon in second, with Middlesbrough striker Emmanuel Latte Lath named in third.

Meanwhile, Sunderland duo Chris Rigg and Jobe Bellingham have been named joint winners of the Young Men’s Player of the Year.

Hebburn-born Rigg became the Black Cats’ youngest-ever senior player when he made his debut in the FA Cup against Shrewsbury in 2023 and has since established himself as a first-team regular at the Stadium of Light, having signed his first professional contract with the club.

His teammate Jobe Bellingham signed terms on Wearside in 2023 having made his first-team debut at Birmingham City at the age of 16. He has been a mainstay in the side which is making a charge for promotion to the Premier League this season under new manager Régis Le Bris.

He said: “I’m proud to have won this award alongside Riggy, who had an incredible year. It’s a testament to the belief the club has shown in us and the support we receive from our team-mates and the staff.

“Sharing this recognition with Riggy highlights the club’s ambition and our focus is now on the final 20 games of the season.”

Rigg said: “The award is even more special because Jobe is unbelievable. It’s amazing to share this award with him and to be recognised for our performances. 2024 was a massive year for me and it is hard to put it into words.

“I owe so much to the players and staff who have supported me throughout my time at the club. After coming back on Saturday, I can’t wait to play my part in the final run-in.”

Women’s Awards

Durham Women midfielder Mollie Lambert has been named as North East Football Writers’ Association’s Women’s Player of the year 2024.

The 26-year-old, from Hartlepool, narrowly beat Newcastle’s Claudia Moan and Amber Keegan-Stobbs, succeeding her Durham teammate Sarah Robson as winner of the award.

Having played for all three of the region’s Women’s Championship sides during her career, Lambert has now made more than 100 appearances for Durham.

Meanwhile, 20-year-old Newcastle United midfielder Elysia Boddy has been named as winner of the Young Women’s Player of the Year award.

She played a key role in the club’s promotion to the Women’s Championship last season. Having started her football journey playing boys’ football with Marton at the age of four, she made her debut in the Women’s Super League with Leicester Women shortly after turning 18. She later moved to Bristol City Women before making the move to Tyneside in 2023.