Cork City striker Ruairí Keating has been named on the three-man shortlist for the Professional Footballers' Association of Ireland Premier Division player of the year award.
Keating has been shortlisted alongside recent Republic of Ireland call-up, Jonathan Afolabi of Bohemians and cup winner Chris Forrester of St Patrick's Athletic.
The 28-year-old netted 13 goals for the Premier Division strugglers throughout the campaign, with a further two coming on their run to the FAI Cup semi-final.
Having returned to the City side in mid-August after a leave of absence taken following the tragic death of his father Ciarán in July, Keating hit a career-first hat-trick in the league win against Sligo Rovers at the start of September.
The nomination comes hot on the heels of City's relegation back to the First Division, as the club lost out to Waterford FC after extra-time. Keating had been forced off with an injury at half-time in the Tallaght Stadium clash.
Waterford's Ronan Coughlan - the match-winner last Friday night - has been nominated for the First Division equivalent of the gong, as have Galway United pair David Hurley and Stephen Walsh.
Keating, as expected, has been named in the Premier Division team of the year.
Meanwhile, Pico Lopes is the sole representative from champions Shamrock Rovers named on the 11.
PFA Ireland Award Shortlists:
Premier Division Player of the Year Shortlist: Jonathan Afolabi (Bohemians), Chris Forrester (St Patrick’s Athletic), Ruairi Keating (Cork City)
First Division Player of the Year Shortlist: Ronan Coughlan (Waterford), David Hurley (Galway United), Stephen Walsh (Galway United)
Premier Division Team of Year: Kearns (Shelbourne), Curtis (St Patrick’s Athletic), Davies (Dundalk),
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