EFL Awards 2026: The players gunning for the top prize

By Holly Wright

The 2025/26 EFL season has been a thrilling rollercoaster across all three divisions, and as we enter the final stretch, attention turns to the individuals who have helped shape campaigns across the Championship, League One, and League Two.

From standout performers on the pitch to the managers masterminding success, and the brightest young talents making their mark, the race for EFL honours is heating up ahead of the awards ceremony on 19 April 2026.

And now, with the official nominations confirmed, Holly Wright takes you through the players in contention for this season’s top accolade.

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Championship Player of the Year nominees

Hayden Hackney – Middlesbrough

Hayden Hackney has cemented himself as one of the Championship’s most complete midfielders this season.

Combining technical skill with tactical intelligence, he dictates the tempo in games while contributing defensively and offensively.

As Boro chase promotion, Hackney remains central to their ambitions, proving his growing influence across the league.

Carl Rushworth – Coventry City

Carl Rushworth has been a standout performer in goal for Coventry City this season, combining athleticism with exceptional composure.

His reflexes, positioning, and shot-stopping have produced numerous clean sheets as the Sky Blues chase the Premier League dream.

His season-long consistency makes him a worthy contender for the Championship Player of the Season.

Femi Azeez – Millwall

Femi Azeez has been one of the Championship’s most dynamic attackers this season, combining pace, dribbling, and creativity.

He consistently challenges defenders, creates space for teammates, and delivers goals and assists at key moments.

Azeez’s combination of individual flair and team contribution has made him one of the division’s most influential offensive players this season.

Zan Vipotnik – Swansea City

Zan Vipotnik has been Swansea City’s standout forward this season, combining intelligence, movement, and finishing ability.

His goals have consistently threatened defences, while his link-up play allows teammates to flourish.

His influence goes beyond statistics, as his movement, positioning, and all-around play make him one of the Championship’s most dangerous forwards this season.

League One Player of the Year nominees

Dom Ballard – Leyton Orient

Dom Ballard has enjoyed a breakthrough season in League One, establishing himself as one of the division’s most prolific forwards.

His movement, composure, and finishing in the box allow him to convert chances efficiently, while his link-up play creates opportunities for teammates.

Ballard’s performances demonstrate why he is one of League One’s top forwards and a strong contender for Player of the Season.

Owen Bailey – Doncaster Rovers

Owen Bailey has been the heartbeat of Doncaster Rovers’ midfield this season.

Combining defensive discipline with attacking contributions, he controls the tempo, breaks up opposition play, and transitions the ball effectively.

Bailey’s ability to dictate matches makes him a standout League One midfielder this season.

Jack Moylan – Lincoln City

Jack Moylan has been a key creative force for Lincoln City this season, contributing goals and assists while providing intelligent movement and link-up play.

He consistently finds space, unlocks defences, and delivers in high-pressure situations, shaping important results.

His combination of creativity, consistency, and decision-making under pressure makes him one of League One’s most effective attacking players and a deserved nominee for Player of the Season.

Sonny Bradley – Lincoln City

Sonny Bradley has provided a cornerstone for his side’s defence this season. Dominant in the air and strong in one-on-one duels, he maintains stability and organisation at the back.

His leadership ensures cohesion, while his ability to contribute goals from set pieces adds further value.

Bradley’s consistency and experience have guided his team through challenging fixtures, highlighting the importance of defensive reliability in League One.

His presence has allowed his side to compete at a high level, and his influence on the team’s structure and performance makes him a deserving nominee this season.

League Two Player of the Year nominees

Aaron Drinan – Swindon Town

Aaron Drinan has been one of League Two’s most effective attacking players this season.

Drinan stretches defences, creates space for teammates, and contributes defensively when pressing or tracking back.

His consistency and work ethic make him a constant threat and central to his side’s offensive output.

Mitch Pinnock – Bromley

Mitch Pinnock has been the creative engine for his team in League Two. Leading the division in assists and chance creation, his vision and technical skill unlock defences consistently.

Pinnock’s delivery from wide areas and set pieces has created numerous scoring opportunities, while his work rate ensures contributions on both ends.

He has consistently produced high-level performances across the campaign.

Callum Patterson – MK Dons

Callum Patterson has been a versatile attacking presence this season, contributing goals and assists across multiple roles.

His movement, awareness, and physicality allow him to exploit spaces and create opportunities for teammates.

Patterson’s adaptability ensures he impacts matches in high-pressure situations, while his consistency guarantees reliable contributions throughout the campaign.

Omar Sowunmi – Bromley

Omar Sowunmi has been a rock at the back, providing defensive stability, leadership, and composure.

Strong in aerial duels and organised in positioning, he has helped maintain a reliable defensive unit.

Sowunmi’s contributions from set pieces, where he has scored important goals, further underline his value.

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