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Collins named as League One player of the season

James Collins has been named as the Sky Bet League One Player of the Season.

The Irish striker has scored 22 league goals this season for Luton Town, who lead League One by eight points with just five games remaining.

Collins beat fellow Republic of Ireland international Aiden McGeady and John Marquis of Doncaster Rovers to the award.

The 28-year-old has yet to make his international debut, but was included in Mick McCarthy’s squad to face Gibraltar and Georgia.

He is the top scorer in League One, and has spearheaded Luton’s mission to return to the Championship for the first time in 12 years.

“Obviously this is a really proud moment for me personally, it’s been a great season so far both personally and for the team,” he said.

“Massive credit to everyone at the club for the amazing run we’ve been on, it’s given us confidence and to win this tonight really tops it off for me. I’m delighted.”

Collins is currently serving a one-match ban after picking up two yellows in Luton’s 2-2 draw with Blackpool – in which he scored his 22nd league goal of the season – on Saturday afternoon.

He was also named in the Sky Bet League One Team of the Season in a front three also containing McGeady and Marquis.

Tranmere Rovers striker James Norwood was named as the Sky Bet League Two Player of the Season, pipping Irish midfielder Jay O’Shea – who was also included in the division’s team of the season – to the award.

Teemu Pukki – who has been crucial to Norwich’s title push – was named as the Championship Player of the Season.

Darren Randolph was chosen as the league’s top ‘keeper in the Championship Team of the Year.

Written by david_smith

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