'No surprise Devlin swept board at Pompey awards'

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It's easy to forget that Terry Devlin didn't start any of Portsmouth's first 13 league games this season. He wasn't injured. Just not selected. Often making late appearances as a substitute.

Since getting his first opportunity against Wrexham on 5 November, he's been left out of John Mousinho's starting line-up just once and that was through suspension.

It wasn't a huge surprise that Devlin swept the board at the end of season dinner, winning men's player of the season, players' player of the season and goal of the season.

Regan Poole deserves at least an honourable mention for a consistent and excellent campaign but the supporters and playing squad were on the same page about Devlin's impact.

The Fratton Park crowd always appreciate committed and tough-tackling players but there is more to Devlin's game than that.

Five goals from right-back is a very good contribution in a low-scoring team. He impacts both ends of the pitch.

This is a player who joined as an attacking midfielder for just £70,000 three years ago. His work ethic and dedication are praised as exemplary behind the scenes.

You don't make the progress he has without commitment and the discipline to live your life as a professional.

Some players may have been knocked off course when Wrexham's transfer interest was rebuffed late in January. Devlin kept his head down and kept working as if nothing had happened.

The rumoured £2m was never likely to be enough for Portsmouth to consider selling him in the window. His value certainly hasn't gone down in the meantime.

Wrexham may come again this summer. There are likely other admirers as well.

Devlin could end up being sold. If he does go, it will be for a very healthy profit after making a key contribution to what Portsmouth are hoping will be another successful battle against relegation.