Suspect there could be divided opinion on Player of the Season this year. So, a starter for ten on the most likely candidates, in no particular order :
Alexandar Mitrovic - His hold up play and general presence up front suggests he was indeed, the missing link in the puzzle. And no questioning he has been 'on fire' with 12 goals and 1 assist in the 3 months since joining. Hard to believe he's only 23.
Tom Cairney - Casting aside a troublesome first half of the season with 'that injury' and West Ham speculation, he struck gold from January onwards. Few would doubt that his influence led to the amazing run of 23 games undefeated. And of course his goal on Saturday was priceless.
Tim Ream - What a transformation this season. Arguably our most consistent player and the highest number of clean sheets (18) in many a year can be credited in a large part to him. Composed and skilful in reading the game. Not many teams can claim their CB has the attributes of a No. 10.
Kevin McDonald - Leader of the pack. And very much the unsung hero - his protection of the back four and our midfield has been key in allowing others to 'shine'. But nonetheless often the provider. His concentration and desire to win in the last 20 minutes on Saturday sums him up perfectly - epitomised by his deflection of Grealish's shot. Although, the goal with his backside against Leeds could be enough to win the title.
Ryan Sessegnon - The only player to play in every League game this season (he came on as sub in 1). A total of 49, including the play offs. Add to that 4 Cup games. Top scorer with 16 goals and up there with 8 assists, including that absolute beauty on Saturday. And of course only 17 years of age (before the one game at the weekend).
Every bone in my body says Sessegnon. I know all the stuff about him not being a left back but even from there he was often 'in the right place at the right time'. Just uncanny how he reads the game. And regardless of anything, 16 goals in a season from a 17 year is simply phenomenal. But ... but, my head goes with Kevin McDonald. He's been at the core of everything that's made us tick and the inspiration.
Alexandar Mitrovic - His hold up play and general presence up front suggests he was indeed, the missing link in the puzzle. And no questioning he has been 'on fire' with 12 goals and 1 assist in the 3 months since joining. Hard to believe he's only 23.
Tom Cairney - Casting aside a troublesome first half of the season with 'that injury' and West Ham speculation, he struck gold from January onwards. Few would doubt that his influence led to the amazing run of 23 games undefeated. And of course his goal on Saturday was priceless.
Tim Ream - What a transformation this season. Arguably our most consistent player and the highest number of clean sheets (18) in many a year can be credited in a large part to him. Composed and skilful in reading the game. Not many teams can claim their CB has the attributes of a No. 10.
Kevin McDonald - Leader of the pack. And very much the unsung hero - his protection of the back four and our midfield has been key in allowing others to 'shine'. But nonetheless often the provider. His concentration and desire to win in the last 20 minutes on Saturday sums him up perfectly - epitomised by his deflection of Grealish's shot. Although, the goal with his backside against Leeds could be enough to win the title.
Ryan Sessegnon - The only player to play in every League game this season (he came on as sub in 1). A total of 49, including the play offs. Add to that 4 Cup games. Top scorer with 16 goals and up there with 8 assists, including that absolute beauty on Saturday. And of course only 17 years of age (before the one game at the weekend).
Every bone in my body says Sessegnon. I know all the stuff about him not being a left back but even from there he was often 'in the right place at the right time'. Just uncanny how he reads the game. And regardless of anything, 16 goals in a season from a 17 year is simply phenomenal. But ... but, my head goes with Kevin McDonald. He's been at the core of everything that's made us tick and the inspiration.
