Declan Rice praised for act seconds after Bruno Fernandes won PFA Player of the Year

The Arsenal midfielder narrowly missed out on the award.

Though Man United didn't win silverware last term, Fernandes enjoyed a star-studded individual campaign, breaking the all-time Premier League assist record with 21, which is one more than competitors Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne in 2002/03 and 2019/20.

With the awards taking place at the Manchester Opera House, there were many PL stars in attendance. Nico O'Reilly picked up the PFA Young Player Award, whilst making the PFA Premier League Team of the Year too. Five Arsenal players also made the elite XI, including David Raya, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, William Saliba and Rice. The other players that made the grade were Rayan Cherki, Erling Haaland, Antoine Semenyo, Igor Thiago and Fernandes.

Declan Rice's selfless act after missing out on PFA award

Moments after former United man Juan Mata announced Fernandes as the winner, Rice's reaction was to be heavily praised. Fans have noticed his response and took to social media to give their plaudits.

One fan noted: "Fair play to Declan Rice, he was the only player that actually clapped when Bruno was announced as the winner."

A second page added: "Fair play to Declan Rice for being so enthusiastic in his applause."

Rice was unlucky not to pip Fernandes to the award, with both players enjoying stellar seasons.