Championship Centre Midfielder of the Year...

Champ Corner's Steven Woodgate continues his investigation into the Championship team of the year, by focusing on the centre midfield area.

The midfield general, the anchor, arguably the most influential position on a football pitch. They can change a game, one single pass, one superb tackle, or one inspiring turn can make the biggest of impacts. These players have certainly done that for their sides.


Joe Ledley

A general naturally gifted player and he is already known as one of the most gifted players in the championship. The Cardiff City playmaker has performed well as his side missed a play off place, his performances have impressed Wales boss John Toshack, as he has become pinnacle in their step up.

The Welsh youngster has built up a huge reputation, and a £6 million pound offer was rejected at the beginning of the season and he rewarded Cardiff with his loyalty, and proudly captained the side.

Lee Carsley

Carsley brought a wealth of experience to a Birmingham City side that was looking to bounce straight back to the Premier League. He rejected an offer of a contract extension from Everton to join his home-town club and what an inspiration he has been.

Club captain Damien Johnson was expected to miss much of the season through injury, therefore Carsley was given the captaincy to lead the team to promotion. He won Player's player of the season and rightfully too.

Karl Henry

What a season for this man. Henry led Wolves to the Premier League, he took over the captain's armband in the absence of the experienced Joey Craddock. His gritty displays gave him credit for doing the dirty work in the centre of midfield; he has established a wonderful partnership with David Jones as the pair has dominated most midfields they have come up against.

Henry lifted the trophy with Craddock as the captain of Wolves after the 1-0 win against Doncaster Rovers.

Chris Cohen

The Nottingham Forest work horse has been subject to much praise from many admirers in the Championship and he has been rewarded with a new contract at the City Ground. His consistent displays for Forest won him player of the year from his fans.

Cohen was a product of the West Ham United Youth system and he will be an important player for the club next season.