Team of the Year

Goalkeeper – Joe Lewis (Aberdeen)

Aberdeen were in desperate need of a consistent player between the sticks and the summer signing of Lewis brought just that. With a lack of consistency in Derek McInnes’ back four selection, the former Cardiff keeper has been called upon on a number of occasions to produce some fine saves to come to the Dons rescue. He has definitely become the Mr Dependable that Aberdeen have craved for a number of seasons.

Defenders – Kieran Tierney (Celtic)

Having emerged through the Celtic youth ranks under Ronny Deila, Tierney has definitely had a year to remember. The 19-year-old has enjoyed making the left back berth his own at his boyhood club, whilst also making an impression on the international scene with Scotland. An ankle ligament injury has recently kept Tierney side lined for two months, so he’ll be aiming to start the new year with a bang and make 2017 as memorable as his 2016.

Erik Sviatchenko (Celtic)

A player that lacked confidence and consistency under Ronny Deila, but Sviatchenko has certainly come up trumps this season. The Dane has performed well at the heart of an ever-changing Celtic backline and has helped keep ten clean sheets out of a possible 19.  Having recently scored his first of the season the 25-year-old will be looking to help gain Celtic the ‘invincible’ tag at both ends of the pitch.

Adam Barton (Partick Thistle)

The central defender has helped lift Partick Thistle into the top half of the Scottish Premiership with a number of composed performances at the back. Having been named Premiership player of the month for October, Barton will be aiming to make his mark on the international scene and gain a call up for Ireland. Continued form from the defender could make the difference between league safety or not for Alan Archibald’s side.

Callum Paterson (Hearts)

The Hearts fullback has had a terrific year for both club and country and is now regarded as Scotland’s number one right back. Unfortunately for the Hearts man he picked up a serious knee injury that will keep him out for at least six months. A move down south looked certain for Paterson, but after sustaining his injury it will be a case of time will tell for the 22-year-old.

Midfielders – Scott Brown (Celtic)

Scott Brown has once again had an inspired year as captain of Celtic. An ever present selection under Rodgers, Brown has brought his usual grit and determination, whilst also showing his footballing know-how to put Celtic clear at the top of the table and also lift the Betfred League Cup. Brown also showed his experience on the European stage with a number of composed performances in the Champions League.

Stuart Armstrong (Celtic)

The former Dundee United midfielder struggled to make an impact at Celtic Park under Ronny Deila, but has been one of the top performers for Brendan Rodgers’ side this season. In his newly found role in the centre of midfield, Armstrong has created and scored a number of goals this season. His consistency in all competitions has surely put him in contention for a call up to Gordon Strachan’s Scotland squad when the next round of World Cup qualifiers come around.

Danny Swanson (St Johnstone)

The attacking midfielder has been an integral part of yet another successful year for St Johnstone. After a disappointing spell at Hearts, there was only one destination in mind for Swanson as he hooked up with Tommy Wright for a second time during the winter transfer window. He is currently the Perth side’s top scorer with 12 goals this season and he looks set to sign a new deal at McDiarmid Park.

James Maddison (Aberdeen)

The on-loan Norwich man headed north in the hope of gaining experience under Derek McInnes. Maddison has certainly brought a new dimension to the Dons’ attacking threat and has showed his undoubted quality in games against some of the top teams in the country. Having extended his loan deal for the rest of the season, both Maddison and McInnes will be hoping for more of the same as they battle alongside Rangers, Hearts and St Johnstone for second spot.

Scott Sinclair (Celtic)

Scott Sinclair arrived at Celtic Park after a £3m transfer from Aston Villa and he has certainly lived up to his price tag. Despite being out injured for over a month of the season Sinclair has bagged 11 goals and 3 assists in his debut season at Celtic Park. He and Celtic will be looking for more of the same as they aim to build on an already impressive season.

Striker – Moussa Dembele (Celtic)

A bargain at just £500,000 from Fulham, Celtic have certainly gained one of the hottest prospects in British football. The Frenchman has scored 19 goals in just 36 appearances for the Hoops – including an Old Firm hatrick and three in the Champions League group stage. His recent form will not have been missed though and Celtic will have a fight on their hands if they want to keep the striker, as Europe’s elite come calling.

Blog by Aidan Smith for 360 Sports Consultancy