Premier League Football Awards 08-09

It's been a brilliant 2008-09 Premier League season, with some mouth-watering signings in the summer, pulsating matches and all-round brilliance! And as the summer break is here, It's time to take a look at the highs and lows. To start, here's my awards for the players and managers who have impressed.

GOALKEEPER OF THE SEASON:

Jussi Jaaskelainen

The faithful Finn has been in the Premier League since 1997. And he's kept Bolton safe for many a year with his brilliant, athletic shot-stopping. He impressed again this season for me, keeping Bolton firmly safe, including a wonderful save late on this season. A big well done also go to Mark Schwarzer, Brad Friedel and Shay Given.

DEFENDER OF THE SEASON:

Brede Hangeland

The big dane made a big impression this season, with consistent performances and strong leadership qualities. He was integral to Fulham's march to Europe and it will be no surprise if he attracts the attention of some top clubs. Jose Bosingwa, Glen Johnson and Nemanja Vidic have also impressed me.

MIDFIELDER OF THE SEASON:

Stephen Ireland

An odd choice perhaps, but nevertheless a right one I think. Ireland has put in some top-class performances this season, and despite Man City being linked with every superstar under the sun, Ireland has got his head down and got on with it, scoring some important goals. Thumbs up go to Steven Gerrard, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ashley Young and Tim Cahill.

STRIKER OF THE SEASON:

Nicolas Anelka

A really tough one to call. But I've gone for Anelka despite a dip in performances in the second half of the season. However, finishing off as the league's top scorer he's scored some great goals and star of the show for Chelsea in some parts. Fernando Torres comes close, and so do Wayne Rooney, Robinho and Robin Van Persie.

MANAGER OF THE SEASON:

Roy Hodgson

Despite Fergie's triple trophy season and Hiddink's miracle, I've gone for Roy Hodgson who's quietly built his Fulham side into top-half winners. He's done very well since coming in, as well as some intelligent signings. Congratulations also go to Tony Pulis, Gianfranco Zola and Harry Redknapp.

FUTURE STAR OF THE SEASON:

Rafael da Silva

The Brazilian has done well to come in to the side because of Gary Neville's injury and has been important in some occasions. The eighteen year old will defiantly feature in Fergie's plans next season. Praise also goes to Jack Collison, Kieran Gibbs, Jack Rodwell and Dan Gosling.

BEST ELEVEN (4-4-2):

GK: Jaaskelainen

RB: G. Johnson

CB: Hangeland

CB: Vidic

LB: Evra

RM: A. Young

CM: Gerrard

CM: Ireland

LM: Ronaldo

ST: Anelka

ST: Torres

Taking a break

I will be taking a break from posting for a few weeks due to education commitments. Thanks!

"I wouldn't say I was the best manager in the world. But I was in the top one" Brian Clough

Thanks Guus

So as we say goodbye to the 2008-09 Premier League season, there is one man Chelsea will thank twenty times over. Guus Hiddink's time at Chelsea is over, as he returns to his post as Russia boss and he will be sorely missed by Chelsea fans. Personally, speaking as a football fan I thought what Guus did over that short space of time was incredible. When he took over Chelsea were a team of confused, down-hearted, selfish players. Now, after what he's done Chelsea are a changed team and they have an F.A. Cup to prove it. We now know that it will be Ancelotti who will take his place. But can he fill Guus's shoes? He has said he wants to return to English football one day. I think that's something I and a lot of other football would want. Cheers and Good Luck Guus.