Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo leads the way for United along with veteran teammates Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.

"(Ronaldo is) the most exciting player in the country at the moment, the quickness of his feet and the skills he possesses make you think, at times, that he's from another planet," PFA Chief Executive Gordon Taylor said of the 22-year-old.

Chelsea’s goal machine Didier Drogba, who is leading the Premiership’s top-scorers with his 18 goals, is also among the frontrunners for the prestigious award.

"What I have liked most about him (Drogba) this season is the way he has committed himself to the Chelsea cause and how he has maintained such excellent form, even when Chelsea have been going through a sticky time," said Gordon after the nominees were announced.

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard, who won the award last year, and Arsenal prodigy Cesc Fabregas complete the six man list.

The award will be presented at London's Grosvenor House Hotel on April 22.

In addition to the Player of the Year award, Ronaldo and Fabregas were also nominated for the Young Player of the Year award.

Manchester United striker and 2006 award winner Wayne Rooney reclaimed his place in the six-man shortlist.

Tottenham’s meteoric winger Aaron Lennon, Manchester City’s Micah Richards and Reading striker Kevin Doyle have also been nominated by their peers.