Minnesota United defender Ike Opara has been shortlisted for Major League Soccer (MLS) defender of the year award alongside two other players.

The 30-year old has been in excellent form for his club all season featuring 30 times and scoring 3 goals in the process.

In addition to that, he  helped his team earn their first playoff berth and the third-best defensive record in the Western Conference including six clean sheets in the second half of the season.

The former San Jose Earthquakes and Kansas City  player,  who first scooped the prestigious award in 2017,  will be up against Miles Robinson (Atlanta United), Walker Zimmerman (Los Angelis FC) and Eddie Segura, (LAFC) for the top honour.

However, the North Carolina-born player,  who is of Nigeria descent,  will look to maintain his solid form as his team prepare to take on LA Galaxy on Monday in the MLS playoffs.