Championship Right Back of the Year...

The right back position can be vital for any team; it could start an attack or break up an opposition threat. It’s often a position that is underrated but for some Championship sides this term, their right back have been vital in their success.
The nominations for the Championship Right Back of the Year are:

Graham Alexander

The Scot found himself playing anchor in midfield towards the end of the season, but the right back berth is often his natural position. The Burnley captain led his troops to an unprecedented amount of games and he hasn’t disappointed.

He played in every single game for the Clarets and was influential with everything they did. His penalty taking exploits also helped with the nine goals he contributed he certainly helped Owen Coyle’s side reach the Premier League. Alexander’s penalty against Reading in the Playoff Semi finals practically sealed their place in the final.

Kyle Naughton

After a loan spell at Scottish side Gretna, Kyle came back to Sheffield United determined to make that right back position his own, duly he did. He cemented his place in the side with a string of impressive performances that made Stuart Pearce to take note and a call up to the England U21 soon followed.

The Blades’ revival towards the end of the season helped Naughton, his pace, discipline, positioning helped him become recognised, and it allows him to offer more than the ordinary right back.

Kevin McNaughton

The Cardiff City ace has always been consistent this year and passed his 100th appearance for the Bluebirds against Watford in October. He’s always been reliable under the Dave Jones’ reign, he’s tied up the right side tightly and never puts a foot wrong.

Many words fling to mind when speaking of McNaughton – consistent, high work-rate, determination and impressive all feature heavily and he once again proves that he provides Cardiff with adequate service. The Scot will be pinnacle for Cardiff’s promotion challenge next term.

Angel Rangel

The Spanish star helped Swansea City almost close in on a playoff place. This season especially he’s become popular with the Swansea faithful with a string of many brilliant performances, particularly in going forward.

Rumours circulate that he will be on the move to Wigan Athletic or Manchester City for a substantial sum this summer. No doubt, one of the better right backs in the Championship.

(Champ Corner, Football FanCast, 2009)