Motherwell FC duo Tawanda Maswanhise and Elijah Just have been rewarded for their outstanding performances this season after being shortlisted for the PFA Scotland Premiership Player of the Year accolade.
The two attackers have been instrumental in Motherwell’s impressive campaign, consistently delivering match-winning performances and playing a central role in the club’s attacking success.
Maswanhise, who has largely been deployed as a centre-forward by head coach Jens Berthel Askou, has enjoyed a prolific season in front of goal. The Zimbabwean striker has netted 17 league goals, making him the top scorer in the Scottish Premiership and one of the most feared forwards in the division.
He has been equally influential, thriving in an attacking midfield role. The New Zealand international has contributed 15 goal involvements, scoring seven times and providing eight assists, underlining his importance to the team’s fluid and expansive style of play.
Their nominations mark a significant milestone for the Fir Park outfit, with the last Motherwell player to win the prestigious award being Michael Higdon during the 2012–13 season after a remarkable goal-scoring campaign.
Speaking on the duo’s achievements, coach Jens Berthel Askou praised their impact both individually and collectively.
“This season, Elijah and Tawanda have been standout players not just for us but for the entire Scottish Premiership,” he said.
He highlighted the players growth and unexpected rise to prominence over the course of the campaign.
“Taking their journey from last season into consideration, it was not obvious the impact they would have in the league this season, and it makes me very happy on their behalf to see them being voted into the PFA’s team of the year alongside three of their team-mates,” he added.
The coach further emphasised the significance of their nominations, noting that the recognition comes from fellow professionals.
“Both being nominated for player of the year on top of that is another huge acknowledgement of their hard work and something for them as well as their team-mates to be extremely proud of,” he said.
The recognition of Maswanhise and Just not only reflects their individual brilliance but also highlights Motherwell’s growing competitiveness in the Scottish top flight, with the duo now firmly among the league’s elite performers.
