The 2021/2022 NPFL season is partly settled. We have our champions in Rivers United, title winners for the first time in their history and MFM FC became the first team to be relegated.
Plateau United have sealed their CAF champions league spot while the battle for the last continental slot is still ongoing most likely till the final 2 minutes of the season.
While all the battles to get to the continent and escape relegation is being fought, the battle for individual awards is also ongoing among the players.
We have been entertained by some individual performances this season and the big question now beckons on the lips of the fans: Who will be the Player of the season?
Here I take a look at the performances of some players that can fit into the category.
Ishaq Rafiu Kayode (River United)
The Offa-born striker stormed this NPFL season unexpectedly. He began the charge for Rivers United’s title with his blistering performances in the first half of the season.
His performances also earned him a place in the Super Eagles where he featured in the friendlies against Mexico and Ecuador. The left-footed right-winger could also fit into the ‘revelation of the season.’
With two games left in the season, he would be hoping to add to the 14-goal tally he has for the season.
Victor Mbaoma (Enyimba)
The striker has moved to Algeria but his performances for Enyimba can not be written off. Though got his scoring boot in the second half of the season, his 16 goals are the reason, the Elephants are still in continental slot contention. He is one of the two players that scored a hattrick this season and also got his national team debut in June.
He is definitely worth being added to the player of the season discussion.
Yusuf AbdulAzeez (Gombe United)
The Savannah Scorpions definitely had a filled season for a newly promoted side and they have Yusuf AbdulAzeez to thank for this. The striker has netted 16 times for them and the goals have ensured they sit comfortably in the middle of the table far away from relegation troubles.
Akuneto Chijioke (Rivers United)
Not surprised he will be in the discussion. Moving from Heartland, the winger has found the form of his life with the league champions. 16 goals including a hattrick and a number of assists, Chijioke really brought the fire this season.
His name will remain on the lips of Rivers United’s fans for a while.
Valentine Odoh (Abia Warriors)
Abia Warriors did not have the most comfortable or consistent season but one player gat has remained consistent for them is Valentine. The striker has netted 14 times this season and has played in different positions for Imama’s team.
Versatile and reliable, Valentine does fit in the discussion as well.
Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars)
The young goalkeeper has shunned in his debut season in the NPFL. Although, a few errors here and there but his performances this season can not be overlooked.
His number of clean sheets – 15 has kept Remo Stars in and around the third position throughout this season.
Sochima Victor (Rivers United)
The third Rivers United to be on the list. Sochima moved from relegated Jigawa Golden Stars to become league champions.
He not only became a champion, but he has also equaled the highest number of clean sheets in the NPFL -16 held by Akwa United’s Adewale Adeyinka.
The goalkeeper definitely is a contender for the player of the season.
Galadima Mohammed (Wikki Tourists)
The veteran goalkeeper moved from Nasarawa United to Wikki Tourists. He is one of the shining lights for the Giants Elephants this season.
With 14 clean sheets in the bag in a team that has not scored much, Galadima definitely fits to be in this contention as well.
There are lots of other players that could fit into the player of the season contention, so who would you vote as NPFL 2022 player of the season?
