Eight young players have been nominated for the Premier League 2 (PL2) Player of the Month award for December.
The nominees have been selected by the Premier League Football Development Panel, who will also decide the winner, with the result being announced later this week.
| Player | Club | Age | Pos. | G | A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aodhan Doherty | BLB | 18 | MID | 2 | 0 |
| Jonathan Esenga | FUL | 17 | DEF | 0 | 1 |
| Daniel Gore | MUN | 20 | MID | 1 | 2 |
| Harry Howell | BHA | 16 | MID | 3 | 1 |
| Adian Manning | NOR | 21 | MID | 2 | 0 |
| Jack Moorhouse | MUN | 19 | MID | 2 | 0 |
| Daniel Ogwuru | NOR | 20 | FOR | 0 | 2 |
| Cameron Peupion | BHA | 22 | MID | 2 | 1 |
Why the players have been nominated
Aodhan Doherty (Blackburn Rovers): It has been a productive campaign for the Northern Irish winger, whose clinical finishing was on full display as he netted twice in a commanding 4-2 victory over Leeds United. Doherty's first goal came from a composed finish, doubling Rovers' lead before half-time. He sealed the win with a well-taken strike following a swift counter-attack.
Jonathan Esenga (Fulham): The defender's pinpoint cross set up November's PL2 Player of the Month, Callum Osmand, for a goal in Fulham's dominant 4-0 win over Derby. A set-piece specialist, he has been instrumental in Fulham's attacking play. The 17-year-old, who broke into the Under-21 side when he was 16, has made eight appearances this season, contributing to Fulham's strong position as they sit second in the PL2 table.
Daniel Gore (Man Utd): Manchester United first-team head coach Ruben Amorim was no doubt impressed as he watched the U21s’ comprehensive 5-1 victory over Southampton. Gore played a pivotal role in the win, scoring once and providing two assists. The 20-year-old, who captained the side, capitalised on a loose ball just outside Saints' penalty area, unleashing a left-footed strike into the bottom corner. He then turned provider, setting up both the third and fourth goals.
Harry Howell (Brighton): At just 16 years old, Howell is already one of PL2’s leading goalscorers. He netted a hat-trick and provided an assist in Brighton & Hove Albion's 5-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur. His first-half brace and late penalty demonstrated composure well beyond his years.
Adian Manning (Norwich): Manning's brace was pivotal in Norwich's 3-0 win over Aston Villa. His first goal was a neat finish, followed by a powerful strike into the far corner. Making eight appearances this season, the youngster's performances have stood out in Norwich's midfield.
Jack Moorhouse (Man Utd): The 19-year-old scored twice in a terrific individual display against Southampton. Standing at 6ft tall, the teenager's speed, physicality and close control make him a formidable presence in midfield, driving Man Utd's offensive transitions.
Daniel Ogwuru (Norwich): While Ogwuru didn’t find the back of the net in December, he has been integral to Norwich's campaign, starting all 10 games. The 20-year-old provided two assists in Norwich’s 3-0 victory over Villa, showcasing his ability to link up play and create opportunities for his team-mates.
Cameron Peupion (Brighton): Brighton extended their unbeaten run to nine games thanks in no small part to Peupion, who registered two goals and an assist in December. He set up a last-gasp equaliser to salvage a point against Arsenal and scored twice in the 5-1 victory over Spurs.
2024/25 PL2 award winners
August: Nathan Butler-Oyedeji (Arsenal)
September: Farid Alfa-Ruprecht (Man City)
October: Kiano Dyer (Chelsea)
November: Callum Osmand (Fulham)
