Quote:
IAN HARTE: Part of the meanest defence in the second tier, Harte seems to be getting better with age. The vastly-experienced Irishman is now 34 years old, but you would not know it to watch him in action. He has formed part of a back four that has conceded at a rate of less than a goal a game this term and is currently readying himself for another shot at the Premier League. Harte is also making his fourth appearance in a PFA Team of the Year, his third in a row and his second consecutive appearance in the Championship selection.
Darren Potter, Stephen Gleeson and Stephen Quinn in the League One XI:
Quote:
Stephen Quinn (Sheffield United): While star striker Ched Evans and midfield ace Kevin McDonald have, deservedly, been snagging most of the headlines for Sheffield United this season, midfield stalwart Quinn has been unassumingly knocking up the best assists tally in the league, with 14 to his name so far. The pint-sized Irishman, who made his Blades debut back in 2005, has also netted four league goals to aid the club's promotion push. Quinn was one of the few bright sparks in United's dismal campaign last term and carried that momentum into this season, producing a string of diligent, committed displays.
Stephen Gleeson (MK Dons): Republic of Ireland international Gleeson has been an important cog in Karl Robinson's machine this season as MK Dons chase promotion. Operating at the heart of the Dons' engine room, the 23-year-old has continued to mature with a host of fine performances, producing five goals and the same number of assists for the club. His most important strike was arguably against Huddersfield in February, when he netted a crucial equaliser to hold the club's promotion rivals. Described, along with fellow midfielder Darren Potter, as 'Rolls Royce' quality by manager Robinson, Gleeson has played an integral part in keeping the Dons flying high.
Darren Potter (MK Dons): Midfielder Potter only arrived at the Stadium mk from Sheffield Wednesday last June on an initial 12-month deal but has fast established himself as a key feature of Robinson's side. Pairing up superbly with Stephen Gleeson, the 27-year-old often pulls the strings in the middle of the park. Potter has been a regular performer for the Dons, notching up 36 appearances so far with a contribution of two goals and three assists. A calming influence on the pitch, the midfielder has also made an impact off it, with Robinson revealing he is a "strong character" in the Dons' dressing room. His diligent displays have not gone unnoticed by the manager, with the club tying the midfielder down on a new two-year deal earlier this week as a reward for his efforts.
Eunan O'Kane in the League Two XI:
Quote:
Eunan O'Kane (Torquay): O'Kane's brace in the 3-1 Devon derby win over Plymouth at Plainmoor in November cemented a special place for him in the hearts of Gulls fans - Martin Ling described the goals as "two absolute corkers" - but in truth, the Irishman has provided invention and industry all season long at Plainmoor, chalking up nine assists and only missing one match, through suspension.