Edwards’ tribute for Jimmy and Dino

RYAN Edwards paid tribute to manager Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and his assistant Dino Maamria after picking up Burton Albion’s player of the year and players’ player of the year awards.

The Australian midfielder, in his second season with Burton, was a comfortable winner in both and said: “I’m very shocked but also very happy. It’s the first time in my career, to win both of these awards.

“The players’ player award is one you hold close to your heart, to be recognised by your team-mates on the pitch is really great.

“To be voted player of the year by the fans is equally pleasing. We’ve missed playing in front of them this year so for them to watch on the Ifollow means a great deal to me and the boys.

“I thought I had more effect on the team in my first season, while this has been a season of two halves and I feel I have come into my own in the second half of it under the new manager.

“Jimmy and Dino have given us unblievable belief and confidence.

“The training standards and demands have been massive and I think that suits me perfectly.

“It’s the mindset I take into training, games and life in general.

“The manager and assistant have given me confidence.

“When you see football, on and off the ball, the way that they see it, you want to play for them even more. That’s shown in my performances, basically to go and run into the ground for them and for the club.”

Edwards was also nominated for the goal of the season for his brilliant late solo effort against Northampton Town, although Joe Powell’s stunning long-range shot against Portstmouth took the prize.

“To score in the 94th minute in the middle of winter like that when pitches are not so great maybe sums up why I have won the awards,” said Edwards.

“I can do more of that and I should be doing more of it.”