Former Crystal Palace striker Kevin Phillips is hoping to inspire the next generation of Football League stars after being receiving the Sir Tom Finney award.

Phillips, who scored the penalty that sent the Eagles soaring in the Premier League, was recognised at Sunday night’s Football League Awards 2015.

The 41-year-old scored 272 goals in 660 senior appearances in a career that spanned 20 years – including eight caps for England.

He said: “I’m extremely proud and truly privileged to accept this award and I’d like to thank The Football League, which has given me so many fantastic memories during my 20 years as a professional footballer.

“It’s all I ever wanted to be, I devoted my life to it and the game has given me so much in return.”

Phillips won the Championship three times, and won promotion to the Premier League on five occasions.

“It’s a bit more special that the award is now so closely associated to Sir Tom Finney – one of the greatest players, gentlemen and role models English football has ever seen.

“If my career can help inspire a fraction of the people Sir Tom’s did, I’ll count it among my finest achievements.”

The Sir Tom Finney Award is presented by The Football League to a player who has had an outstanding career in its competitions and was renamed permanently in honour of the Preston North End and England legend following his death in 2014.