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Announced 17 minutes ago

England footballer Michelle Agyemang, darts prodigy Luke Littler and cricket star Davina Perrin have been named as finalists for the upcoming Young Athlete of the Year award.

These three athletes have been honoured for their exceptional achievements over the last year.

Agyemang helped the Lionesses win Euro 2025, Littler won the world title for the very first time, and Perrin rose to fame with a historic innings.

Littler won the award in 2024 after his sensational debut year.

The three contenders were announced live on a widely-listened-to radio show.

The champion will be unveiled on the annual sports awards show on Thursday, 18 December.

The show will be televised from 19:00 GMT.

The Football Star

Age: 19 Sport: Football

Just three months after her senior team debut, Agyemang played a dramatic and decisive role in England's run to European Championship victory.

She came off the bench to score key tying goals in both the knockout stage games.

These match-saving moments led to her being named the tournament's top young talent.

Subsequently, she was awarded the Golden Girl award for the top young European talent.

She was also shortlisted for the Kopa Trophy for the planet's top young female footballer.

Agyemang, who has been playing for Brighton on loan from Arsenal, sustained a serious knee injury in October.

"To be named a finalist for this award is a privilege," said Agyemang. "I'm grateful to God and I'm appreciative of the support I've received from my family, coaches, team-mates and fans."

The Darts Prodigy

Age: 18 Sport: Darts

Littler kicked off the year in sensational style as - while still 17 - he became the earliest-ever winner in history.

He secured a dominant victory over Michael van Gerwen in the final.

His follow-up triumph at the World Matchplay made him only the fifth individual to complete the prestigious three major tournament wins.

And he wasn't finished there - his triumph in November's Grand Slam of Darts meant he climbed to world number one for the very first time.

At 18, he is the earliest achiever to do so, breaking the previous record.

"To receive a nomination for this award again is a massive accolade," stated Littler. "Last year's win was a special memory for me and I've had another amazing 12 months. I want to continue raising the profile of darts."

Perrin's Profile

Age: 19 Sport: Cricket

Perrin is one of English cricket's most exciting young talents and burst into the spotlight with an unbelievable and unprecedented innings in August.

Her sublime 42-ball century in The Hundred is the quickest ever by an English female in T20s.

It also stands as the equal third-quickest women's T20 century in a premier tournament.

Perrin came in second place in the season's run tally and was named PCA Women's Young Player of the Year.

"I'm deeply humbled to be shortlisted for the young athlete award," expressed Perrin. "It means a great deal. I hope it encourages more girls to get into cricket."