Latest News
Trio honoured at Football Writers' Association awards dinner
Written by Tom Easterby
Rafa Benítez, Jamaal Lascelles and Matt Ritchie were among the winners at the North East Football Writers’ Association’s annual awards dinner on Sunday night.
The ceremony at Ramside Hall in Durham celebrated the achievements of clubs and individuals in the region over the course of 2017, with the Magpies honoured following last season’s memorable Championship title win.
Captain Lascelles, who lifted the trophy at the end of last term, was there to collect the Player of the Year award, which he shared with teammate Ritchie.
The pair followed in the footsteps of Newcastle heroes Kevin Keegan, Peter Beardsley, Les Ferdinand, Shay Given and Alan Shearer – all past winners of the award.
Winger Ritchie – who bagged 16 goals in all competitions in his first year at St. James’ Park – was unable to attend the event due to illness, but centre back Lascelles collected the prize on behalf of the pair.
“I’m over the moon to be collecting a massive award – it’s a huge honour,” the 24-year-old told NUFC TV.
“It just shows that we’ve both been doing the right things. I’m sure the manager’s really pleased that two of his players are getting this award. It’s a huge thing, and I’m over the moon.”
Meanwhile, manager Benítez was presented with the Special Merit award for his role in guiding United back to the top flight at the first time of asking.
And he took the opportunity to pay tribute to his players and backroom team that helped make his success possible.
“When a manager wins something it means his team is doing well, his staff is doing well and everybody involved is doing well,” Benítez told NUFC TV. “On behalf of everyone, you are really proud, but it’s because everybody has been working so hard together. That is the key.”