MICHAEL Ricketts' nomination in the Premiership' Young Player of the Year awards has won a ringing endorsement from the Reebok dressing room.

The Wanderers' 15-goal top scorer has been short-listed for the coveted Players' Player honour organised by the Professional Footballers' Association Players Association - a richly deserved accolade according to his team-mates.

"What an exceptional season he's had," Mike Whitlow acknowledged. "People have had a little go at him of late but he's played for England - the first player from Bolton for years and years - and scored goals in the Premiership.

"He's had a fantastic season and, hopefully, he can finish it off in style."

Whitlow dismisses suggestions that Ricketts, who has not scored a Premiership goal since January 16 and lost his place in Sam Allardyce's first 11, has suffered a dip in form in reaction to negative publicity from the national press since he made his England debut in the friendly against Holland.

"It's nothing to do with all the nonsense that people contrive," the seasoned defender said supportively. "Michael thrives on confidence and when he scores his confidence goes through the roof.

"But we know Michael. We've got every belief in Michael. He's done fantastic this year.

"People forget what he's achieved. Yes, every player goes through a little lack of confidence but he thrives on scoring goals. He's a talented, blessed player and that will never leave him. He's graced with talent but he works hard too.

"People will knock him but the lads have every faith in him. Ask anyone in the changing room if they believe he will turn it round and they will all say he will."

Ricketts has been short-listed for the Young Players' Player along with Craig Bellamy (Newcastle), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Ledley King (Spurs), John Terry (Chelsea) and Darius Vassell (Aston Villa).

The result of the PFA poll will be revealed on Sunday, April 14.