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, together with Motherwell’s Elijah Just and Tawanda Maswanhise, each of whom has enjoyed a standout campaign in the Scottish top flight.
Hearts sit at the summit of the Premiership table, three points clear of Celtic, while Rangers trail by an additional point after a disappointing loss to the Steelmen on Sunday. The Jambo side’s recent form has been buoyed by the contributions of Braga, who arrived at the club in the summer and has quickly become the team’s leading marksman. The Portuguese striker has found the net 14 times and supplied five assists, featuring in every one of Hearts’ 34 league fixtures to date. His consistent presence and goal‑scoring prowess have been instrumental in keeping Hearts ahead of the traditional powerhouses.
Lawrence Shankland, the club captain, is the defending champion of the award, having secured it in 2024. Despite a spell on the sidelines due to injury, Shankland has returned to form, registering 13 goals in 25 league appearances. His leadership on and off the pitch continues to inspire his teammates and maintain Hearts’ momentum in the title race. Motherwell’s Elijah Just has emerged as a revelation since joining the club.
The New Zealand winger has contributed seven goals and eight assists across 31 Premiership matches, helping the Steelmen climb to fourth place in the current standings. His ability to create chances and finish them with equal flair has made him a vital component of Motherwell’s attacking strategy. The most prolific scorer in the league at this stage is Tawanda Maswanhise, who joined Motherwell in 2024.
The 23‑year‑old forward has already netted 17 goals in 31 games, topping the league’s scoring charts. Under the guidance of new manager Jens Berthel Askou, Maswanhise has transformed from a modest five‑goal season last year into a goal‑machine, showcasing his development and adaptability in a more attacking system.
Among the younger talents, 22‑year‑old Barney Stewart has broken through at Falkirk after a loan spell at Dunfermline earlier in the season. Having played university football just two years ago, Stewart has already scored eight Premiership goals for the Bairns, following a six‑goal haul for the Pars in the Championship. His rapid rise highlights the depth of emerging Scottish talent. Arbroath midfielder Findlay Marshall is the sole nominee from outside the top tier.
The 19‑year‑old has recorded 11 goals and two assists, playing a pivotal role in the part‑time Championship side’s push for a place in the promotion play‑offs. His performances demonstrate that quality football can be found throughout the Scottish league system. Defender Luke Graham has been a stalwart for Dundee, starting 33 of the club’s 34 league matches. His consistency and defensive reliability have earned him recognition among the season’s best performers.
On loan from Tottenham, Rangers winger Mikey Moore, only 18, is the youngest nominee on the list. After a slow start to his Scottish adventure, Moore has become a key figure in Danny Röhl’s side, contributing six goals and two assists as Rangers battle Hearts and Celtic for the championship. 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, alongside Hearts’ Georgia Timms and Rangers forward Katie Wilkinson. Rangers also have two players on the Young Player shortlist, while Laura Berry and May Cruft have been nominated, joining 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 dramatic climax, fans are invited to vote for the Scottish Premiership Goal of the Season. The shortlist includes Marko Lazitic (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), and Rangers duo Jayden Meghoma and Youssef Chermiti. Supporters can view all twelve goals and cast their vote for the most spectacular finish.
Finally, a reminder that the Super 6 competition offers a chance to win a £250,000 prize. Entries are free, providing another exciting avenue for fans to engage with Scottish football beyond the pitch.