Steve McLaren has backed Robin van Persie to win the PFA Player of the Year award this season.

The Manchester United striker was announced as a nominee on Friday and McLaren believes that the 29-year-old deserves the accolade.

"I think Robin van Persie will win the big prize. He has made such important difference to Manchester United," the former England manager told BBC Sport. "Look at the points difference between themselves and the rest - how did that happen? Van Persie's goals.

"They lacked a goalscorer of that type last season. The other contenders are worthy, but I think the votes will have gone in and I think he'll be the winner."

Tottenham Hotspur's Gareth Bale is the current favourite for the award.