MILLER PUTS HANLON INTO HIS TOP TEAM
KENNY MILLER has named his controversial picks for Premiership team of the season so far, with Hibs’ Paul Hanlon earning a surprise selection.
The former Rangers and Celtic striker was speaking to Go Radio as he reflected on the first half of the term.
Now coaching at Falkirk, Miller has been keeping a keen eye on the Premiership as he dabbled in punditry throughout the first half of the campaign.
So there was no surprise when he named Hearts’ Craig Gordon as his keeper.
When it came to naming his back four, however, host Rob McLean was left aghast when he named Hibs’ Hanlon in defence.
Miller said: “My back four’s going to be Ralston, Souttar and Paul Hanlon at left centre-back. He’s been outstanding this year, even in the League Cup Final against Celtic.
“When you watch him, he’s as reliable as they come. His positioning, his understanding, his reading of the game.
“He’s done it for 12-15 years now. I did have Charlie Mulgrew as he’s had a really good season, Porteous and CarterVickers could go in as well.
“At left-back, I know Calvin Bassey’s been playing centre-back but he’s a left-back by trade so I’m going to go with him.”
There were less shocks in midfield with Callum McGregor, Joe Aribo and Tom Rogic taking the slots.
He continued: “I’ve tried to stay away from just the Old Firm but the midfield are three Old Firm players.
“Callum McGregor sitting, with Tom Rogic, who has been absolutely rejuvenated under Ange, and Joe Aribo, who has been Rangers’ most consistent player.
“Three unbelievable players. They can all contribute in any area, McGregor is not the typical No.6 but he can play in there and control a game.”
In the end Ibrox hero Miller only named two Rangers players in his side but there was more love for Celtic to come.
Kyogo is the obvious choice but Jota misses out for the current top scorer Tony Watt.
He added: “I mentioned Jota but he’s on the bench. Kyogo is obvious.
“And I’m going to go for Tony Watt.”
Miller’s Premiership team of the season: Gordon; Ralston, Souttar, Hanlon, Bassey; Aribo, McGregor, Rogic; Boyle, Kyogo, Watt.