De Vos wins another award

[George]

Jason's our top man

by neil barker

CANADIAN man mountain Jason De Vos has stood tall this season as the inspirational captain of second division champions Wigan Athletic.

He has led by example, defied pain and is today celebrating landing another richly-deserved accolade.

The rugged, raw-boned Latics skipper and centre half is the April winner of the prestigious Manchester Evening News/GMR Sports Personality of the Month.

De Vos ruled the roost and inspired his teammates as Paul Jewell's men romped to a championship crowning.

His win puts him in distinguished company. Previous recipients of our award include Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy and Manchester City legend Shaun Goater, who announced that he will be leaving Maine Road at the end of the season last week.

Delighted

A delighted De Vos, who will be presented with the championship trophy at the JJB on Saturday, said: "It is wonderful to win such awards. I am honoured and delighted.

"The great and beautiful thing about football is that it's a team game and every individual deserves credit for such awards and Wigan's success.

"It has been a fairytale from the start - simply fantastic and the efforts of the team are there for all to see."

De Vos chipped in with eight goals - seven from headers - and put his body on the line for the second half of the campaign.

He has soldiered on with a broken bone in his foot as a result of an accidental challenge and was an ever-present until manager Jewell rested him for the clash with Oldham.

Jewell cannot speak highly enough of his influential skipper, labelling him a rock and knowing such a forceful presence has been a significant factor in Wigan's championship campaign.

He is idolised by fans but most importantly respected by teammates and rivals.