Furman sets pace for Star accolade

DEAN Furman leads the pack in the race to claim the ‘Chronicle Star Man’ award.

As the New Year approaches, the midfield dynamo’s energetic performances have so far landed him five man-of-the-match nominations for the season.

The former Glasgow Rangers and Bradford City player has been the heartbeat of manager Paul Dickov’s side this season and has weighed in with several spectacular goals — none more so than his screamer in a 3-0 home win over Notts County in the first home league game of the season.

Four players are chasing Furman.

Sunderland loan pair Oumare Tounkara and Jean-Yves Mvoto have both impressed more and more as the season has progressed, Kieran Lee has been an assured and dynamic performer at right-back and Chris Taylor is getting back to the sort of form which made him one of the most feared players in League One.

Last season’s winner, Sean Gregan, managed 11 nominations over the course of the season to scoop the prize.

The current list reads: Dean Furman (five); Kieran Lee, Oumare Tounkara, Jean-Yves Mvoto, Chris Taylor (three each); Dale Stephens, Ritchie Jones, Paul Black, Dean Brill (one each).

The ‘Chronicle Star Man’ is presented in association with award sponsors Indish Restaurant, Bar and Grill.

It is worth £600 to the winner, who will donate the prize to a charity of his choice.