3/1 To Win
Derby County youngster Max Bird has been named the 2018/19 Apprentice of the Year at tonight’s EFL Awards, held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London.
The 18-year-old, who had already been named the Championship Apprentice of the Year, beat off competition from Rochdale’s Daniel Adshead and Stevenage’s Arthurn Iontton to win the overall award.
The 18-year-old, fresh from signing a new contract last month which will run until the summer of 2022, has enjoyed a progressive season for the Rams under manager Frank Lampard.
He has featured seven times for the first team and he made his league debut against Swansea City in December.
The midfielder was named in the starting line-up against Premier League side Southampton in Derby’s Emirates FA Cup Third Round clash at Pride Park Stadium at the start of January, whilst his first league start came in March against Aston Villa.
As well as being a regular member of the first-team squad this season, Bird has featured regularly for Derby’s Under-23s and also worn the captain’s armband on several occasions.
Manager Frank Lampard said: “I’m not surprised Max has won the Apprentice of the Year award, not only because of his talent on the pitch and his desire to work hard, but how he is off the pitch too.
“He stands out as a young man. He is very polite with everyone, has a real desire to improve and he’s a good team-mate. Whether it has been for the youth teams or when he has been with the first team, he is an all-rounder and it is great recognition for him.”
Speaking at the EFL Awards, Bird added: "I'm delighted, I couldn't ask for much more. To win this award, it's a proud moment for me, and all I can do is thank everyone who has helped me, from the Under-18s up to the first team. It's brilliant, I just want to keep improving from here."
