Chris Basham reaffirms his commitment to Sheffield United after winning player of the season gongs

Chris Basham says he hopes to enjoy many more seasons as a Sheffield United player after picking up a historic 'double' at the Blades' virtual player of the year ceremony last night.
Richarlison of Everton battles for possession with Chris Basham of Sheffield United (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)Richarlison of Everton battles for possession with Chris Basham of Sheffield United (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Richarlison of Everton battles for possession with Chris Basham of Sheffield United (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

With the annual event cancelled because of the Covid-19 pandemic, United moved their player of the season awards night onto their social media channels, with defender Basham named both players' player and supporters' player of the year.

The former Blackpool man impressed both offensively and defensively as part of United's back three, and helped keep 13 clean sheets on United's return to the Premier League.

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And the defender, who was recently linked with a move to Newcastle United as he enters the final year of his Bramall Lane contract, admitted: "I have loved being here for the last six or seven years, and long may it continue. Because I love being here.

"The supporters have always been on my side, through thick and thin. I've improved and improved under this manager, and credit to him for sticking by me. And the fans have done the same, and I'm reaping the rewards now.

"I am privileged to be the player of the season for Sheffield United, and it feels great."

Dean Henderson once again was named United's young player of the year, while Enda Stevens' stunning strike against Brighton and Hove Albion at Bramall Lane was named goal of the season.

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"It hasn't quite sunk in yet," Basham added, of his players' player award win.

"The lads are a close-knit group and a great set of lads. For them to vote for me, I feel very privileged. I am astonished to win it, but buzzing as well."

On his performances this season, Basham added: "The good thing is that I know the position. I'm not getting chucked in there and told to play like Chris Basham! I can just be myself, and I know the position. But I have great lads next to me, to help me along the way."

United's new Premier League season kicks off on September 12, giving Basham and Co. a shortened summer break after the 2019/20 campaign season finish was delayed by the coronavirus lockdown.

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