Everyone has got an opinion on who they think has been their club’s Player of the Season; football is a game of opinions after all. You might be torn between one or two players, or you might disagree completely with the wider choice. Or your club might’ve had a torrid season and you think none of them deserve the accolade. Everyone’s got their own opinion.
So to discover who really are each club’s POTS’s I decided to get in touch with those who dedicate large parts of their lives to creating content on their beloved clubs. The fan-made content creators!
Now FanHub has a lot of content creators involved already, but we always want more. If you’re a content creator reading this then why not get involved? The application form is right here.
For those club’s that I struggled to get content creators on board for, then I’ve involved some pure, brilliant fans.
If you agree or disagree with these choices then let us know below!
Let’s go…
AFC Wimbledon – Joe Pigott
Somehow the Dons stayed in League One for another season as they finished up in 19th place. They’ll be desperate to keep their star man. Stu from the ‘9yrs Podcast‘ informed me all about their POTS, a striker who’s had a strong season.
‘The 9yrs podcast POTY is Joe Pigott. We had some really good performances this season, especially players like George Dobson and Ayoub Assal who were excellent from February onwards, however Pigott was consistently playing at a high standard and ended the season with 20 league goals, which was a 37% contribution to the total goals scored by the team this season.
The form under Mark Robinson since he was appointed heads coach in February has been mid-table form and Pigott was influential in this with 7 goals in the last 11 games which included a late winner at home to Northampton Town, a free kick at Accrington Stanley, two goals in a 4-1 win at home to Swindon, a winner at home to Oxford and the late equaliser at home to Rochdale that effectively guaranteed our League One safety.
Pigott scored the most goals, most assists and played the most minutes for the team this season.’
Accrington Stanley – Dion Charles
At one point Stanley were in the playoffs, but as the season evened out they found themselves in a very respectable 11th. Next season they will want to push a little further to try and do the unthinkable. I spoke to Gill, and Accrington fan, as she chose their star striker.
‘Dion has really proved himself this season. His 19 goals in the league were outstanding and the way he lead our front line was superb. We might struggle to keep hold off him this season but it’s imperative if we want to push on.’
Blackpool – Chris Maxwell
The Seasiders have had a great season and found themselves promoted back to the Championship via the playoffs, Tom from the ‘Up The Mighty Pool‘ podcast chose a name that I hadn’t seen hit headlines too much.
‘Chris Maxwell – most clean sheets and fewest goals conceded in the league. Captain, leader from the back. Involved in community off the field, always stands up for the tough questions when we have a bad result, barely made a mistake and has made some crucial saves. To say he’s an ex-PNE and Fleetwood player, the fact he’s become a fan favourite speaks volumes for his performances in the last 18 months but particularly this season.’
Bristol Rovers – Luke McCormick
It’s been a poor season for the Gas, they finished rock bottom of League One. Joey Barton has said how few players he actually wants to keep for the next season, but this guy would’ve probably been one if he wasn’t on loan. Caz from the ‘GasCast‘ tells us exactly why he should stay.
‘Despite playing in a poor relegation side – Luke stood out as a player who not only demonstrated class but also played with real fight and passion. He’s a young lad but he is mature well beyond his years – I’m confident he will go far in his career.’
Burton Albion – Ryan Edwards
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink’s return to Burton saved their season. An incredible winning run took them far away from those relegation places. Chris, a massive Brewers fan tells us about their key midfielder.
‘POTS is a tough one, as few have been absolute standouts this year. Kane Hemmings’ goals have been vital but the performances of Ryan Edwards in the heart of the midfield have been just as key.
He is a player that can completely control the speed and tempo of a game with ease and has been a large dominant force for us this year. He’s not been without fault, but he’s been key.’
Charlton Athletic – Jake Forster-Caskey
They somehow missed out on a play-off spot on goal difference, but in general, Charlton’s first season should be seen as the positive start of an important rebuild. Tyler from the ‘TJR Report‘ gives us the lowdown on a key midfield man.
‘My player of the season for Charlton would be the player that ended up winning it – Jake Forster-Caskey. In a midfield that has been fairly non-existent for the most part, Jake has been one of the few players that has consistently put in solid performances and gave us that presence in the midfield that we badly needed.
You could give mentions to Shinnie and also Gilbey when talking about solid midfielders for us, but throughout the season Forster-Caskey has been a massive influence in the middle of the pitch, bringing high energy, creativity and has chipped in with a few goals this year. I don’t think there was any doubt that he would win the player of the season award and he was definitely a deserving winner. Gutted that he’s out with an ACL injury at the moment but I’m confident he’ll come back stronger and continue where he left off.’
Crewe Alexandra – Owen Dale
Crewe’s first year back in League One saw them consolidate themselves well with a 12th place finish. I could’ve picked myself to do this one, but thought I would contact ‘The Railwaymen Podcast’ host, Stuart. He gave us a surprise inclusion.
‘Owen Dale was not someone expected to be the player of the season at the start of the season. He wasn’t even assured of a starting spot. A player who always looked like he had all the skills and temperament to make it was held back by a lack of end product. This all changed in the 20/21 season particularly at the back end. He has added goals and assists to his terrifying ability to run directly at defenders. He now looks like the latest one off the Crewe Alex production line who will shortly be playing higher up the league pyramid.’
Doncaster Rovers – Reece James
Doncaster’s late season form dipped slightly meaning they ended up in 14th place, instead of the playoffs that they were aiming for. Lisa, a Rovers fan gives us her tricky choice.
‘It’s a real tricky one. I’d have to go for Reece James – not that one. I’ve been really impressed by him this season, he’s worked hard on his game. He’s fairly solid at the back, but brings a lot in attack. He’s bagged 7 goals this year, which makes him our 2nd top scorer in the league. He’s got a lot of potential too.’
Fleetwood Town – Callum Connolly
Fleetwood’s great start to the season crumbled as the campaign went on, but as Joey Barton passed on the managerial baton to Simon Grayson, the Cod Army will started next season with renewed optimism. One player they’re unlikely to have is the one chosen by Ben, from ‘Cods Vlogs‘ as their POTS.
‘Mine is Callum Connolly, a brick wall at the back and he’s played in every match since arriving on deadline day. A very versatile player that always gives everything and is a huge leader at the back.’
Gillingham – Vadaine Oliver
10th place for Gillingham demonstrates another solid year, but this summer they’ll want to make some key additions to push for those playoff places. Matt from the ‘Gills In My Blood‘ blog and YouTube channel gave me the name of a player that really hit positive headlines this season.
‘The big question upon his arrival was could be make the step up to League 1, and he did it emphatically. 20 goals in all competitions (17 in the league) comfortably made him our top scorer, and his run of eight goals in eight games throughout March kept us in the Play Off hunt for longer than most of us envisaged. A real steal on a free transfer.’
Hull City – George Honeyman
Champions! The Tiger’s returned to the Championship at the first time of asking, in great style too. Ant from the ‘Hull&Back‘ podcast had a tough choice for their Hull player of the season. Mallik Wilks just missed out for the former Sunderland midfielder.
‘George Honeyman. His box-to-box dynamism, coming back and winning the ball then going to the other end and creating chances has been key to our success. He is always an 9/10 minimum every game and leads by example. Also, his set pieces have been exemplary. So many assists and chances created. We’re half the team without him in the side.’
Ipswich Town – Toto Nsiala
Another season ended with a tinge of disappointment for the Tractor Boys as they finish up in 9th place, however Matt from the ‘ITFC Hub‘ tried his best for us.
‘You’d be hard-pressed to find a player worthy of the title ‘player of the season’ at Portman Road this season, but Toto Nsiala gets my vote for his vast personal development. Whilst goals were hard to come by, Town’s defenders certainly did their jobs this campaign, with Toto at the heart of many solid defensive displays. He’s proved a lot of people wrong, including myself, and he gets my vote as the one shining light in an utterly depressing season.’
Lincoln City – Jorge Grant
Playoff final defeat will have disappointed the fans, but just flirting with promotion in that way will have given the Imps a lot of confidence for next season. I spoke to Gary from the ‘Stacey West‘ blog, as his side have had a great season, he chose their star player.
‘It is hard to pick one player when the team effort has been so solid and committed, but Jorge Grant edges it based on technical ability as much as anything. Much has been made of his goals, but that masks his real importance – many of his strikes have come from the penalty spot at big moments in the season. That is where his real value can be found – he has played well in big matches, conducting the orchestra like a true master. He’s been adaptable too, filling in defensive midfield for Liam Bridcutt, playing out wide on the left as well as his favoured attacking midfield role. He arrived at Lincoln a boy full of potential and this season he has proven himself to be a man capable of rising through the levels.’
MK Dons – Dean Lewington
Liam from the ‘MK1 Podcast‘ chose a club legend for their POTS. What a servant DL has been to Milton Keynes over the years. Their 13th place this season shows the starting of their revolution under Russ Martin.
‘Now at 36 years old, Dean Lewington has seen his best season in a Dons shirt this campaign. Whilst barely missing a minute for Russell Martin’s side, Lewington has been the rock in a season of constant transition and progression and is fully deserving of this award.’
Northampton Town – Ryan Watson
A tough season for Northampton who found themselves relegated straight back down to League Two after one season, but Charles from the ‘It’s All Cobblers To Me‘ Podcast chose one of the very few shining lights in their squad.
‘Ryan Watson had his best ever season in front of goal as he bagged 8 to follow up the one that set the Cobblers on their way at Wembley. After Jon Brady took charge, Watto was moved further forward, allowing him to play with a bit more freedom and he reaped the benefits. Not only is Watson the It’s All Cobblers To Me Player of the Season, but he also picked up the official club gong too.’
Oxford United – Rob Atkinson
Oxford’s semi final playoff defeat ended a chaotic season for the U’s. They were relegation threatened for much of the first half of the season, but finished so strongly. Craig talks to us about their centre-half.
‘For all the brilliant attacking play we’ve had this year, you need to have a strong base, and Rob Atkinson epitomises that. He’s a central defender with brilliant strength and aerial ability. He’s also a commanding voice with impeccable leadership skills. He’s the vital cog in this Oxford machine.’
Peterborough United – Nathan Thompson
What a year for Peterborough United, they finished 2nd in League One which saw them promoted to the heights of the Championship. Star players were aplenty for the Midlanders, including top scorer Jonson Clarke-Harris. Posh fan Nick Jackson (@NickJacksonPosh) chose a different option though.
‘Player of the season this season was Nathan Thompson. A no nonsense defender who has spent his entire career in the third tier or below. Can play at centre back, right back or wing back, and was instrumental in steadying the ship at the back. Also chipped in with some vital goals and assists. A true professional who will finally get his shot at championship football after signing a new deal this month.’
Plymouth Argyle – Joe Edwards
Argyle’s 18th place finish will be classed a positive one considering it’s their first season back in League One. Ryan Lowe’s Green Army will be looking to strength for the new season as they attempt a push for the playoffs, but one man they hope to keep hold of is Joe Edwards. Plymouth fan Danny (@danny_pafc) tells us about him.
‘A player who in my opinion is a credit to the football club, and this became evident when he won Player of the Year 20-21. A midfielder who gives it is all and sometimes more, even stepping up to be the stand in captain. He recently signed a 2 Year Contract meaning he’ll stay with Argyle till the end of the 2023 season.’
Portsmouth – Craig MacGillivray
Hugh from the lot at ‘PompeyNewsNow‘ chose their keeper, as the club just missed out on a playoff place which will have really disappointed the home faithful. They’ll want a big summer to push for top place.
‘Craig’s been one of Pompey’s most consistent performers this season. He commanded his area well and has regularly kept the Blues in games because of his shot-stopping. The EFL trophy final was a particular highlight, where he single-handedly kept Portsmouth in the game until the shoot out.
Craig’s contract is up this summer although Pompey held an option to automatically renew it for a further year. This would have triggered a salary raise and the club have chosen not to extend him. I expect a Championship team to give Craig the chance to play at a higher level with a well-earned pay rise.’
Rochdale – Jimmy Keohane
Rochdale have been chaos this season, and in the end suffered relegation, but Tom from the ‘All Dale Aren’t We‘ podcast picked out a great player.
‘My player of the Season for Rochdale is Jimmy Keohane he had started out as a fringe player at best for the majority of the time he has been at the club but this season from a wing back / full back position has scored 10 goals in 44 appearances the season for the club , some of his performances were what very nearly helped us stay up!’
Shrewsbury – Josh Vela
Shrewsbury will be disappointed to have been flirting with relegation for most of the season, but to finish clear in 17th is better than what some may have expected. I spoke to Ollie from the ‘SalopCast‘, as he chose the former Bolton midfielder.
‘This season’s Salopcast player of the season is Josh Vela. At the start of the season few would have believed Vela would be this season’s player of the season. Vela has really improved since signing in January 2019, Vela has been ever present in the starting line up and Shrewsbury’s most consistent performer. Under Cotterill’s management Vela looks fitter and sharper, and played a key role in driving Salop from relegation fodder to a 17th place finish. Playing as a box to box midfielder in a 3-4-1-2 formation, Vela formed a tenacious partnership with Ollie Norburn contributing at both ends of the pitch.’
Sunderland – Aiden McGeady
Defeat in the playoff semi-final will have yet again disappointed many fans, but with Lee Johnson at the helm, their re-building project is in solid hands. I spoke to fellow FanHub writer, and ‘Speak Sunderland’ writer Josh, as he gave me the low down on their Irish wizard.
‘For me easily our player of the year, without him we wouldn’t be anywhere near the play offs. At the same time, had Parkinson opted to play him, automatics could have been a real option. It’s easy to say Wyke given how many goals he scored but take away Mcgeady and you take away the threat that Wyke possesses. Aiden missed the opening 3 months of the season and still (I believe) finished top of the assists chart in League One. That speaks for itself. He’s a class above this level even at his age. One of very few players I’d like to see stay at the club next season.’
Swindon Town – Scott Twine
It’s been a tough season for Swindon too, but Rich from the ‘Loathed Strangers‘ Podcast picked a player that hit the headlines a lot.
‘Twine wasn’t fancied too much at Swindon by Richie Wellens at the start of the season. He got himself a decent loan move to Newport County under Michael Flynn where he thrived. He returned in January and was used by John Sheridan throughout the remainder of the season. Twine was by no means perfect but had the potential to change the game with eye-of-needle passing, set-pieces and long range efforts.’
Wigan Athletic – Will Keane
The Latics survived by one point in the league, and they’ll be delighted they did (obviously) because the funding they will have next season is an absolute gamechanger. I spoke to Barry, who is the editor and producer of the ‘Progress With Unity’ Podcast, and he chose the big man as his player POTS.
‘Despite having two periods of layoffs due to injury and illness. Keane finished the clubs top goal scorer and 2nd in the assists chart.
He finished the season with 12 goals, his highest career total, playing mainly has a number 10, a role which was new to him and he revelled in it, especially in the final third of the season when he really stepped up to the plate.
Scoring vital goals in vital games, Keane has had an excellent season for the Latics despite our battle at the foot of the table, missed part mid season with a niggling injury only to come down with covid on his return to full fitness, once he was back after this setback he was like our very own Zinadine Zidane.’
There you go! A mix of content creators and fans’ player of the seasons, do you agree with your club’s choice? Would you have picked someone else? Let us know!
