Joe Hart is on Player of the Year shortlist

Shropshire-born?goalkeeper Joe Hart has made the shortlist for the Professional Footballers' Association's top prize.

Hart is among the nominees for the Players' Player of the Year, although Arsenal striker Robin van Persie has been installed as bookies' favourite for the award.

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney, Tottenham midfielder Scott Parker and Hart's Manchester City colleagues Sergio Aguero and David Silva make up the shortlist.

The 28-year-old Dutchman Van Persie has struck 34 times in all competitions for the Gunners this season and PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor said: "He has been amazing. You could pick half a dozen of his goals out for goal of the season."

The huge impact made by Aguero since his £38m move to City from Atletico Madrid last summer is recognised by the fact he is also shortlisted for the Young Player of the Year prize.

The 23-year-old Argentinian has scored 28 goals for Roberto Mancini's side.

Tottenham winger Gareth Bale, who won the senior award last season, is this year nominated only in the young player category.

Bale's Spurs team-mate Kyle Walker, Arsenal prodigy Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck and Chelsea forward Daniel Sturridge are the other young players in contention.