Choose the correct word to complete the following sentence:
Last month, each of the eleven players in our under-16 team ______ a new kit by the sponsor.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → was given
Subject-verb agreement with “each of”:
- “Each of” + a plural noun takes a singular verb.
- The subject is “each”, not “players”. “Last month” shows the past. So the verb is was given.
- Complete sentence: Last month, each of the eleven players in our under-16 team was given a new kit by the sponsor.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: were given — Incorrect. “Were given” is plural, but the subject “each” is singular. Example: All the players were given new caps.
Option 2: are given — Incorrect. “Are given” is plural, but the subject “each” is singular. Example: Free books are given to all students in June.
Option 3: is given — Incorrect. “Is given” shows the present. The sentence is about the past (“last month”). Example: A medal is given to the best player every year.