Man City's Simpson-Pusey named PL2 Player of the Season

Manchester City captain and centre-back Jahmai Simpson-Pusey has made history by becoming the first ever defender to win the Premier League 2 Player of the Season award.

The 19-year-old follows in the footsteps of previous Man City winners Carlos Borges, James McAtee and Liam Delap, becoming the club's fourth such winner since 2016/17.

But while his predecessors were attackers, Simpson-Pusey has been recognised for his defensive excellence and leadership at the heart of Man City’s rearguard. He has combined composure in possession with physicality, while his organisational skills and reading of the game have also impressed.

“To receive this award in such a competitive league with lots of amazing talent is a huge honour for me,” Simpson-Pusey told Man City's official website.

“I feel like this has been my best season representing City and I’m really glad it’s helped the team win the PL2 and reach the play-off final, which we are excited to be competing in. 

“This squad is a great team to be a part of as we all push each other to be the best we can be every day, and I think we’ve seen that with the new records we’ve hit this season, even more so following a difficult season last year."

Simpson-Pusey played a key role as Man City finished top of the table in the regular season, conceding only 23 goals in 20 matches, the second-meanest defence in the division behind Brighton & Hove Albion's 22.

He was instrumental as his side recorded six clean sheets, while he also showed his attacking attributes with two goals and an assist.

He was a key figure again in last Friday's playoff semi-final against rivals Manchester United, leading his side to a 2-0 win, with yet another clean sheet.

Simpson-Pusey has been chosen as the PL2 Player of the Season by the Premier League Football Development Panel, topping an eight-man shortlist. 

PL2 Player of the Season winners