Midfield maestro Steven Davis was delighted, yet ‘humbled’ to receive another award for his exploits on the pitch this season – this time the prize came from his native Northern Ireland.
The veteran and now four times Scottish league champion was honoured with the International Personality of the Year prize at the NI Football Awards.
This is organised with the NI Football Writers Association in partnership with the NI Football League.
It really was a fine season for the 36-year old – for club and country.
A dominant run of form over the course of the term also brought a spectacular Old Firm goal as well as having a major impact on the main objective of bringing the Scottish title back to Ibrox.
With Ryan Jack’s injury enforced absence, the NI skipper assumed more responsibility and was a colossus in the engine room for Steven Gerrard.
In the green shirt of Northern Ireland, Davis had the honour of becoming the UK international caps record holder, overtaking Peter Shilton, by making his 126th appearance – simply unprecedented.
Davis was gracious, as always, in response to this latest recognition, as told to the Belfast Telegraph:
He stated: “I’m delighted and humbled. I’d like to thank the football writers and sponsors Reavey Solicitors for the award.”
“I know this award considers both club and international form, so for me to win it in a year when Jonny Evans won the FA Cup and Stuart Dallas did so well in the Premier League is amazing.”
“It was a strange season for me at international level. It was incredible to become the most-capped player in British history, and I still want to build upon that landmark and win more caps for my country.”
“However, missing out on the Euros was devastating. It would have been something to cherish, and it was tough to see it slip away after getting so close.”
Winner
The County Antrim man also looked forward to what is still to come at Ibrox, showing that the hunger and desire still burns:
“It’s been a difficult 10 years, so this year’s success was very special, particularly as we finished the league unbeaten.”
“It’s important that we build upon that next year by winning more trophies and performing well in the Champions League – I want to be part of that.”
Steven Davis in the Champions League at 36? Not a problem!