Past seasons have seen England's future overshadowed by a high number of talented foreign imports blessing their skills on the English game.

But as the 2003/04 nominations are made there are no less than eight English players from the 12 nominees.

The future of English football is undoubtedly looking brighter and here we take a look at the stars who are giving England supporters fresh hopes of a successful future, aswell as those from abroad who are still lighting up the Premiership.

PFA Player of the Year nominees

Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)

The Liverpool midfielder has grown immensely over the past year and has proven himself as one of the Premiership's leading midfielders.

The 23-year-old has weighed in with some vital performances for Gerard Houllier's side this season and will play a pivotal role in England's Euro 2004 bid for glory. PFA Young Player of the Year in 2001.

Frank Lampard (Chelsea)

Lampard is one of the few players who has been able to secure a regular place in Claudio Ranieri's Chelsea side and will be hoping to continue his magnificent form with England in Portugal.

The 25-year-old has also scored some vital goals this season, including the equaliser against Arsenal in the Champions League.

Lampard will doubtless be hoping to steer the Blues past Monaco and intop the Champions league Final before flying off the Euro 2004.

Alan Shearer (Newcastle)

The evergreen Newcastle striker retired from international football in order to prolong his domestic career, and the decision appears to have paid off as he has enjoyed another wonderful campaign at St James' Park.

With 27 goals to his name in 2003/04 Shearer finds his name amongst the Premiership's elite once again as Newcastle look to book themselves a place in the Champions League as well as challenge for the UEFA Cup.

Jay Jay Okocha (Bolton Wanderers)

Bolton's wonderous midfielder has amazed supporters across the country with his mesmerising skills and superb goals.

The Nigerian deservedly finds himself competing for the title of the Player of the Year, inspiring Bolton towards the Carling Cup Final where ultimately Sam Allardyce's side lose to Middlesbrough.

Patrick Vieira (Arsenal)

A rock in Arsenal's midfield once again, Vieira continues to shine as Arsenal attempt to close in on the Premiership title.

The Gunners are still yet to lose a game - a remarkable feat when one considers the sides they are up against.

The Frenchman is undoubtedly one of the League's best players and is in the running to prove so once again.

Thierry Henry (Arsenal)

Currently the holder of the Player of the Year award, Henry has enjoyed another magnificent season.

He is nominated for the fourth consecutive year and deservedly so as he weighs in with even more goals and assists as Arsenal aim to win the Premiership.

PFA Young Player of the Year nominees

Glen Johnson (Chelsea) - Has proven himself following his £6m move from west Ham last summer following a string of impressive performances which should prepare him for a long future in the England frame.

Scott Parker (Chelsea) - Parker enjoyed a fantastic first half of the season before moving from Charlton to Chelsea in January. Another midfielder who Sven Goran Eriksson will be watching closely ahead of Euro 2004.

Shaun Wright-Phillips (Manchester City) - Recently called up to the England squad for the first time, Wright-Phillips has enjoyed a superb season for Manchester City and deservedly finds himself amongst the best young talent.

Wayne Rooney (Everton) - Rooney has managed to live up to his reputation after arriving on the Premeirship scene with such impact last season. Nominated for the award for the second successive year, Rooney is sure to be in England's plans for the long-term.

John Terry (Chelsea) - Terry has grown into a leader in Chelsea's remarkable season and along with England teammate Lampard is one of the few names to appear regualrly in Ranieri's starting lie-up.

Kolo Toure (Arsenal) - One of the surprise packages of the season as Toure has emerged as a top class defender and has proved vital for Arsene Wenger in another impressive Premeirship season. Has built a good relationship with England's Sol Campbell.