Garry Monk speaks about the candidates to be crowned player of the year at tonight's awards dinner
The Swansea City captain was speaking on the eve of the annual awards dinner where the candidates are all vying to follow last year's winner Jordi Gomez as the Player of the Year.
And like Gomez, two of the candidates are already attracting Premier League interest with rumours of moves for both Ashley Williams and Darren Pratley already surfacing as the Swans look towards their last league game on Sunday which will seal their play off fate.
“Prats has always been a big player for us – but I think this year he realises just how much we depend on him," he told the Western Mail
“I think he’s definitely matured as a player this year – he’s still got bits and bobs to work on like every player has but I can’t speak highly enough of him.
“We lost some big players in midfield this year but he’s come into his own and taken a lot more responsibility - and that’s why he’s been attracting the attention he has.
“It’s the same for Ash; he’s been our top man and I said to him on Saturday after he made a mistake for their goal, look at many points he’s saved us this season. He’s been a rock for the side and out of all the boys I’ve played with he’s probably the best and he’s got everything to go all the way – hopefully that’s with us."
Monk also revealed that his vice captain Alan Tate had been on the election trail and canvassing for votes ahead of the dinner which may give him th edge according to the captain
“I think Tatey thinks its an election and has been canvassing for votes so he could well win it
“But he would deserve to because he’s been class all year.
“He didn’t play regularly under Roberto Martinez but he came in and made the left-back position his own and has gone on to play all across the back this year and been consistent when he’s done it. He’s filled in wherever he’s had to and been immense.
“Dorus’ record speaks for itself and the way he helps set up attacks is lack having a sweeper behind you.
“And Nathan has learned a lot and when his confidence is sky-high he’s unplayable.
“We’ve had some big years to help us get into this position and hopefully we can have something to celebrate on Sunday.
“Our mentality hasn’t changed – we would have had to have won our last game regardless and that’s what we’ll be looking to do.”