Cunningham named finalist for MLS MVP award

2009 Budweiser Golden Boot winner one of three finalists for prize

FC Dallas Media Relations

After earning team MVP honors, Jeff Cunningham is now after the league award. (Yeatts/Getty)

FRISCO, Texas -- FC Dallas forward Jeff Cunningham has been named as a finalist for the Volkswagen Major League Soccer Most Valuable Player award, MLS announced today.

Cunningham is one of three finalists for the MLS year-end Award after earning votes in polling of MLS players, general managers, coaches, referees and members of the media.

The 33-year-old veteran forward made a tremendous impact for FC Dallas in 2009 after the departure of marquee player Kenny Cooper during the summer transfer window. Winner of the 2009 MLS Golden Boot after leading the league with 17 goals, Cunningham launched a late-season hot streak that improved FC Dallas to one of the league's hottest teams in the second half. After notching just four goals prior to the All-Star break, Cunningham scored 13 in the final 12 games, earning team MVP honors for his efforts. Cunningham also provided eight assists this season, finishing second on the team.

Volkswagen MLS Most Valuable Player Finalists
Jeff Cunningham - FC Dallas
Landon Donovan - Los Angeles Galaxy
Shalrie Joseph - New England Revolution

Major League Soccer will announce the winner of the Most Valuable Player Award on Nov. 19 live on ESPN News.