Christian Burgess named The News/Sports Mail Portsmouth Player of the Season by supporters

And by doing so, it signifies the fourth-successive year a defender has been chosen by fans.

The central defender has been recognised for a magnificent campaign, his fifth since moving to Fratton Park in the summer of 2015.

Initially out of favour during pre-season, with Tom Naylor preferred in defence on occasions, Burgess powered through to become a pivotal figure in a side which finished in the play-offs.

That form earned him a staggering 69 per cent of votes registered by readers in our traditional player of the season poll.

Such was his dominance in effectively a two-horse race, he recorded more than 100 votes ahead of second-placed Ronan Curtis.

Third place went to skipper Tom Naylor.

There were also nominations for Ellis Harrison, Alex Bass, John Marquis and Andy Cannon.

Burgess succeeds former central defensive partner Matt Clarke, who held the honour for the previous two seasons.

Before him was left-back Enda Stevens, who was named The News/Sports Mail’s Player of the Season in 2016-17 – when Pompey won the League Two title.

However, Burgess will not have the opportunity to retain the title next year – he is joining Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise once this campaign finishes.

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