First-time Hyundai A-League finalists Melbourne Heart have led the nods for the Professional Footballers Australia’s team of the season with four players selected included Fred, who was named captain.
First-time Hyundai A-League finalists Melbourne Heart have led the nods for the Professional Footballers Australia’s team of the season with four players selected included Fred, who was named captain.
Selected by the voting of players around the league, Fred was joined by defender Michael Marrone, midfielder Aziz Behich and Clint Bolton, who was named back up keeper.
“It is an incredible honour to not only be selected in the PFA’s A-League Team of the Season, but named as its captain as well,” Fred said.
“Today’s announcement is one of the best individual honours I’ve received during my career as a professional, and it’s fantastic to see my teammates Aziz Behich, Michael Marrone and Clint Bolton named in the team as well.”
Premiers’ Plate winners Central Coast Mariners, reigning champions Brisbane Roar and finals absentees Melbourne Victory each had three players selected.
Mariners Goalkeeper Mat Ryan and defenders Joshua Rose and Patrick Zwaanswijk were voted in the starting XI, while the Roar are represented by midfield dup Thomas Broich and Mitch Nichols, as well as Golden Boot winner Besart Berisha.
Phoenix striker Paul Ifill and Victory veteran Archie Thompson completed the starting sign with the PFA opting for a 3-4-3 formation for the first time.
Goalkeeper: Mat Ryan (Central Coast Mariners)
Defenders: Michael Marrone (Melbourne Heart FC), Patrick Zwaansijk (Central Coast Mariners), Josh Rose (Central Coast Mariners)
Midfielders: Thomas Broich (Brisbane Roar), Fred (Melbourne Heart FC), Mitch Nichols (Brisbane Roar), Aziz Behich (Melbourne Heart FC)
Forwards: Paul Ifill (Wellington Phoenix), Besart Berisha (Brisbane Roar), Archie Thompson (Melbourne Victory).
Subs: Clint Bolton (Melbourne Heart FC), Andrew Durante (Wellington Phoenix), Nicky Carle (Sydney FC), Carlos Hernandez (Melbourne Victory), Harry Kewell (Melbourne Victory)
