Defoe and Pickford pick up awards from Sunderland supporters

Jermain Defoe and Jordan Pickford were recognised last night at the Supporters Player of the Year awards at the Stadium of Light.

Defoe was voted by fans as their Player of the Year for the second successive season, after scoring another 15 league goals for the Black Cats this campaign.

Jordan Pickford was named as Young Player of the Year after impressing throughout the season, in which he has established himself as Sunderland’s No.1. The Washington born stopper has received praise from those throughout the game for his regular contribution to the team.

Over 300 supporters from branches set up across the North East and elsewhere attended the annual event, with fans young and old able to greet players from the Sunderland first team and SAFC ladies throughout the evening. Kevin Ball, Gary Bennett and Richie Pitt were also among some of the former players to take part in a Q&A for fans after the awards.

On receiving the award for the second year running, Defoe said: “It’s really special to be voted for by the fans and everyone knows what a special relationship I have with them, so I’m really thankful to everyone for voting for me again.”

Pickford was equally delighted to be recognised by his home support. He said: “It feels really good, especially if you look at the list of young players that have won this award and what they’ve gone on to do – it just shows hard work pays off.

“Hearing the fans sing my name through this season has been really great too, and it makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up when they’re shouting your name week in, week out. So without doubt, it’s a massive privilege for myself and my family to receive this from the fans.”

Elsewhere, Danielle Brown was named by fans as their Ladies Young Player of Year and centre back Hayley Sharp was recognised by supporters as the Ladies Player of the Year.