League One honour for Rhodes

FOOTBALL:

OLDHAM-BORN Huddersfield Town striker Jordan Rhodes picked up the npower League One player of the year award last night.

Rhodes, who took his tally for the season to 33 in the 2-2 draw against Rochdale on Saturday (see story above), received his trophy in front of more than 600 guests at The Brewery, London.

Southampton striker Rickie Lambert was named Championship player of the year.

The 30–year–old has been in imperious form for Saints this season, with his 21 league goals propelling the promoted club to top of the division.

He said: “When Saints got to the Championship I was at a point in my career where I was mentally strong.

“I came into the Championship at the right time and I was confident I could do it.

“I am happy at Southampton. My family are happy and I am in a great team as well.”

Lambert has been prolific for Southampton since joining from Bristol Rovers in 2009, netting 82 goals in 149 appearances.

Swindon midfielder Matt Ritchie took home the League Two accolade.

Gus Poyet was awarded the inaugural Football Manager outstanding managerial achievement award for transforming Brighton and the contribution to League Football award went to Shrewsbury Town boss Graham Turner.