text: Saracens No 8 Billy Vunipola, Toulon flanker Steffon Armitage and Clermont full back Nick Abendanon have all been shortlisted for the European Player of the Year award following their superb performances in this season's European Champions Cup. Vunipola starred for Mark McCall's side throughout the pool stages and was named man-of-the-match following his side's 33-10 demolition of Munster in round five. Armitage, who was named European Player of the Year last season, has made the most turnovers (19) during this season's tournament. Saracens No 8 Billy Vunipola is tackled by Julien Bardy during his side's 13-9 defeat by Clermont . Toulon flanker Steffon Armitage is stopped in his tracks by Leinster loosehead Cian Healy . Billy Vunipola (Saracens) Steffon Armitage (Toulon) Fritz Lee (Clermont) Jamie Heaslip (Leinster) Nick Abendanon (Clermont) The Toulon back rower was named on the bench for last Sunday's quarter-final against Leinster. Armitage, however, made a huge contribution when he replaced Juan Smith in the 35th minute as Bernard Larporte's side secured their place in this year's final. Former Bath full back Abendanon has been rewarded for his stellar form with Les Jaunards during the current campaign. The English trio are joined on the shortlist by Leinster captain Jamie Heaslip and Clermont No 8 Fritz Lee. Clermont full back Nick Abendanon has his progress halted by Saracens centre Brad Barritt .
target: Steffon Armitage was named European Player of the Year last season .
  Billy Vunipola was superb for Saracens during his season's tournament .
  Nick Abendanon has starred for 2015 finalists Clermont .