WORCESTER Valkyries ace Lydia Thompson has been nominated for the World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year award.

The 25-year-old wing now faces competition from France internationals Romane Menager and Safi N’Diaye and New Zealand duo Kelly Brazier and Portia Woodman for the top prize.

In a new step in the selection process, fans, international captains, coaches and media will have their say before the panel considers the winners of the prestigious awards.

To vote, click here

Voting closes at midnight on Sunday.

The winner will be announced at the World Rugby Awards at the Salle des Etoiles in Monte Carlo on Sunday, November 26.

Thompson’s selection comes after scoring 12 tries in 10 matches for England, including a brace in the World Cup final defeat to New Zealand.

She played four matches in England’s Six Nations Grand Slam-winning campaign, scoring a hat-trick against Wales, and helped the Red Roses win the International Women’s Rugby Series in New Zealand.

The Stourbridge-born back, who has been at Worcester since 2010, then went on to catch the eye in the World Cup, scoring five tries in all.

World Rugby Awards panel comprises of Richie McCaw, John Smit, George Gregan, Maggie Alphonsi, Clive Woodward, Brian O’Driscoll, Fabien Galthié and Agustín Pichot.