Leinster trio shortlisted for European player award

Josh van der Flier has helped Leinster reach this season's Champions Cup final

Leinster and Ireland flanker Josh van der Flier is in line to become the first player to win the EPCR player of the year award in consecutive seasons.

La Rochelle number eight Gregory Alldritt and Toulouse scrum-half Antoine Dupont make up the nominees.

The winner will be announced after this month's Heineken Champions Cup final.

Van der Flier, who also won the World Rugby player of the year award last year, back row Doris and centre Ringrose have been influential for Ireland this campaign, playing major roles in the team's Grand Slam success.

They have also been at the forefront for a Leinster side that is top of the URC table and is aiming to win a fifth Champions Cup after powering past Toulouse in the semi-final on Saturday.

An initial 15 nominees for the European Professional Club Rugby award were trimmed to five by a panel of judges and voting for the coveted award has now reopened.

Ireland fly-half Ronan O'Gara was the first winner of the trophy in 2010.