For the first time since the 2013 season, the PFA Scotland Premiership Player of the Year shortlist contains no representatives from either Celtic or Rangers. The four nominees this year are Hearts forwards Claudio Braga and Lawrence Shankland, alongside Motherwell’s Elijah Just and Tawanda Maswanhise, all of whom have impressed consistently throughout the campaign and are now vying for the accolade that is decided by a vote of their fellow top‑flight players. Hearts sit at the summit of the Scottish Premiership, three points clear of Celtic, while Rangers trail by a further point after a recent defeat to the Steelmen.
This narrow margin underscores how crucial the performances of the nominated players have been in shaping the title race. Claudio Braga arrived at Hearts in the summer and has quickly become a pivotal figure in the side’s attacking set‑up.
The Portuguese striker has already found the back of the net 14 times and added five assists, featuring in every one of the 34 league matches played so far. His contributions have not only helped Hearts maintain their lead but also highlighted his growing importance as the club’s primary goal‑scorer. Lawrence Shankland, the captain of Hearts and the 2024 winner of the same award, has also been a key influence despite a period on the sidelines due to injury. Since returning to action, he has recorded 13 goals in 25 league appearances, demonstrating resilience and a knack for delivering when it matters most.
Elijah Just, the New Zealand winger who joined Motherwell, has been described as a revelation. In his 31 Premiership outings he has produced seven goals and eight assists, a contribution that has propelled Motherwell into fourth place in the current standings.
His pace, creativity and work rate have made him a constant threat on the flanks and a valuable asset for the Fir Park side. Tawanda Maswanhise, the 23‑year‑old striker who signed for Motherwell in 2024, currently leads the league’s scoring charts with 17 goals from 31 games. Under the guidance of new manager Jens Berthel Askou, Maswanhise has dramatically improved his output, having managed only five goals in the previous season.
His sharp finishing and intelligent movement have turned him into one of the most feared attackers in the division. Other notable nominees include Barney Stewart, who broke through at Falkirk after a loan spell at Dunfermline.
The 22‑year‑old, who was playing university football just two years ago, has already netted eight Premiership goals for the Bairns after scoring six for the Pars in the Championship, illustrating a rapid rise through the Scottish football ranks. From outside the top flight, Arbroath midfielder Findlay Marshall is the sole representative. At only 19, he has already contributed 11 goals and two assists, playing a crucial role in helping his part‑time Championship side secure a place in the promotion play‑offs. Defender Luke Graham has enjoyed a standout season with Dundee, providing a reliable presence at the back and starting 33 of the club’s 34 league matches.
His consistency has been vital for a Dundee side looking to solidify its position in the Premiership. Rangers’ on‑loan winger Mikey Moore, the youngest nominee at just 18, has turned a slow start into a breakthrough.
After moving from Tottenham Hotspur, he has become a key component of Danny Röhl’s plans, contributing six goals and two assists as Rangers continue to chase the title alongside Hearts and Celtic. In the women’s game, Glasgow City’s Lee Gibson and Nicole Kozlova have been shortlisted for the PFA Scotland SWPL Player of the Year award, joining Hearts’ Georgia Timms and Rangers forward Katie Wilkinson. The SWPL Young Player shortlist also features Rangers’ Laura Berry and May Cruft, alongside Hibernian’s Rosie Livingstone and Glasgow City’s Lisa Forrest.
Hearts currently lead the SWPL, two points ahead of Glasgow City, with Rangers a further two points back in third place. As the 2025/26 season approaches its climax, fans are invited to vote for their favourite Scottish Premiership goal of the season. The shortlist includes Marko Lazetic (Aberdeen), Reo Hatate (Celtic), Callum McGregor (Celtic), Hyun‑Jun Yang (Celtic), Sebastian Tounekti (Celtic), Ethan Hamilton (Dundee), Zac Sapsford (Dundee United), Kyrell Wilson (Falkirk), Alex Kyziridis (Hearts), Ben Brannan (Kilmarnock), as well as Rangers duo Jayden Meghoma and Youssef Chermiti.
Supporters can view all twelve goals and cast their vote for the most spectacular finish. Beyond the awards, the Scottish football community continues to engage fans with interactive experiences, such as the Super 6 competition offering a chance to win £250,000. Participation is free, encouraging widespread involvement across the league’s diverse audience.
Overall, the absence of Old Firm players from this year’s Player of the Year shortlist reflects the growing competitiveness of Scottish football. Hearts, Motherwell, and a handful of emerging talents from lower divisions are challenging the traditional dominance of Celtic and Rangers, promising an exciting and unpredictable finish to the season.