Bukayo Saka has become the latest recipient of the Premier League’s Academy Graduate award for 2021/22, according to a report.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 01: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal looks on during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal at London Stadium on May 01, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal looks on during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Arsenal at London Stadium on May 01, 2022. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Jeorge Bird reports that Bukayo Saka received the Premier League 2021/22 Academy Graduate award earlier this week.

Saka takes the prize following last year’s winner Mason Mount, and Marcus Rashford the year before that.

According to the Premier League, the accolade is awarded to individuals who excel in their on-pitch performance and who are also inspirational role models off the pitch for future generations.

The award is also limited to homegrown players aged 23 or under who have made the transition from the Academy level to the Premier League.

The Premier League haven’t yet confirmed that Saka is this year’s recipient of the award, but we’ll hopefully get the announcement shortly.

Arsenal's English midfielder Bukayo Saka applauds supporters as he leaves having been substituted during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium in London on May 8, 2022. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s English midfielder Bukayo Saka applauds supporters as he leaves having been substituted during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium in London on May 8, 2022. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

It’s a shame that Saka didn’t also pick up the Premier League’s Young Player of the Season award, with Phil Foden receiving that prize.

The decision didn’t seem to make much sense, with Saka also nominated for Player of the Season whilst Foden wasn’t.

But at least the league have given Saka some recognition for his current campaign. Ideally, this award will be followed by the Young Player of the Year award from the PFA.