League Two Right-back of the Season: Fraser Franks

Fearless Franks – stevenagefc.com

When Fraser Franks signed for Stevenage from Luton Town, his exit got mixed reactions from fans of their Hertfordshire rivals. Some felt it was a mistake to let him go, others were glad to see the back of him.

It is fair to say that his performances for Boro have vindicated those in the former camp. Franks won Player of the Year in his first season at the Lamex, a tough 15/16 campaign and has continued his form this term. Having started all bar three of Darren Sarll’s games in charge, it is easy to see how highly valued he is by the coaching staff.

The versatile defender can cover for injuries by playing anywhere across the back four, most commonly at right-back this term. While he is not the most attacking full-back around, Stevenage employ a system that allows wide men such as Jobi McAnuff and Tom Pett to express themselves and Franks’ discipline is key.

He faced whispers of criticism over January but responded by helping his team to a run of nine wins in 11 games. In that time he scored his fourth goal of the season, what turned out to be the winner at Crewe, to go with a fine strike against Doncaster and two other set pieces headers earlier in the campaign.

He might not grab the headlines every week, but for solid consistency, this full-back is hard to beat in more ways than one.