2016-17 Championship Team of the Season

Here is The Football Lab’s Championship Team of the Season for the 2016-17 campaign, with only one player picked per club. If you disagree with this team, let us know at @_FootbalLab.

Goalkeeper – Alex Smithies: Prior to positive mid-season recruitment, QPR were kept out of the relegation zone only by the work of Smithies. He single-handedly retained three points in October’s West London derby at Fulham.

Right-back – Ivo Pinto: At a time when the passion of Norwich’s players is being questioned, Pinto has a crucial bond with supporters. He provides width with his impressive attacking runs
Centre-backs – Lewis Dunk and Pontus Jansson. Dunk has been the Championship’s most consistent centre-back for three years now while Jansson has had a calming influence at Leeds.
Left-back – Andy Yiadom: The ex-Barnet man’s attacking runs are made all the more impressive when one considers he has produced them in a new position.

Central midfielders – Jonathan Hogg and Sam Hutchinson: Hogg slots in between the centre-backs, an important role allowing Pinto and Yiadom to push on. Hutchinson has a combative side and has been arguably Wednesday’s best player this term.

Right winger – Matt Ritchie: set to win his second automatic promotion from the Championship in three years, Ritchie has been a key creative outlet for Newcastle.
Attacking midfielder – Tom Cairney: Jokanovic was willing to build his midfield around Cairney and the 26-year-old has thrived in his free role.
Left winger – Aiden McGeady: A wonderful piece of recruitment from Simon Grayson, who has got the skilful, enigmatic wide man performing to his full capacity.

Striker – Jonathan Kodjia: the one bright attacking spark in an underwhelming campaign for the Villans. Kodjia has scored 19 goals and causes problems with his direct runs.

Substitutes

Daniel Bentley – the Essex-born stopper has long been one of the most consistent goalkeepers outside the top flight and continues his form at Brentford.
Tammy Abraham – his power, movement and 21 goals to date have helped Bristol City remain above the drop zone.
Christophe Berra – recaptured his 14/15 form with some fine performances in the bottom half’s best defence. Imperious in the derby at Carrow Road.
Joe Ralls – Cardiff have picked up 41 points from the 26 games Ralls has played in under Warnock. A dynamic midfielder.
John Swift – a bright talent who often relishes playing in possession-based sides. Seven goals and four assists is a good return for the 21-year-old.

Manager – David Wagner: Whatever the outcome of this season, Wagner and his coaching staff deserve great credit for cultivating a sense of belief at Huddersfield Town.