Pearce plundered 46 goals in 51 appearances for National League South Worthing last season to earn a move to York City.

And he quickly dispelled any notion that he would struggle to make the step up to the National League by firing 31 goals for the Minstermen, leading their promotion assault.

McLean, the former Hull City striker now TV pundit, accepted the award on Pearce’s behalf and has backed the 28-year-old to add more honours in the future.

The Sports Circle Player of the Year: Ollie Pearce – York City\

“Ollie is somebody I have watched for a few years,” McLean, pictured with The Sports Circle’s Francis Duku below, said.

“I had no doubt he could make the step up and replicate the numbers and the performances he has had.

“He is a very talented young man and somebody who is just going to continue breaking barriers and keep scoring goals.

“As well as being a brilliant footballer.

“He’s a great lad as well.

“Sometimes players take time to adapt to surroundings and a higher standard of football but he has taken to it like a duck to water, and his performances have been nothing short of magnificent.

“He fully deserves the award and I’m sure it won’t be the last of his career.”

Accolade

Pearce was unable to collect his award in person owing to York’s National League play-off semi-final against Oldham Athletic on Tuesday night, but sent The NLP a video message of thanks following the latest accolade.

McLean, who spent his early footballing years in Non-League with Aldershot Town and Grays Athletic between 2003 and 2007 in a career that eventually saw him feature for Hull City in the Premier League in 2013, followed a similar path.

And the DAZN pundit expressed his gratitude to be involved with the awards.

“To be able to honour those in Non-League is exceptional,” he said.

“I’m privileged to be a part of it.”