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The superlatives were running thick and fast for Sydney FC’s Vitezslav Lavicka after he was voted PFA coach of the year on Tuesday.
Melbourne Victory’s Ernie Merrick was named A-League coach of the year last month, but Lavicka has taken out the Professional Footballers Australia gong voted for by A-League players.
The Czech-born coach, who led the sky blues to the minor premiership one year after they missed the finals, polled 66 votes to win the award in a canter.
Wellington’s Ricki Herbert (30) and Merrick (29) were a distant second and third respectively.
Lavicka will lead Sydney on Saturday as they attempt to beat Herbert’s Phoenix and qualify for the grand final against Melbourne.
“He’s brought respect, he’s brought accountability and he’s brought self-belief to every single player, whether they’re captain of the club or part of the youth team,” Sydney FC defender and PFA president Simon Colosimo said.
“Everyone is treated equally and being part of that has been very enjoyable.”
With players unable to vote for their own coach, the award is a sign other footballers in the league were aware of Lavicka’s talents.
Sydney FC veteran Steve Corica, who has seen a coaching turnstile during his time at the club, praised the discipline and technical ability Lavicka brought with him from Europe.
“He’s done a wonderful job this season,” he said. “It’s been a remarkable turnaround from last season to this season.
“We’re a very professional outfit, we’re structured and well-organised and everyone knows their jobs.
“He’s very big on discipline and I think that showed during the season.”
Lavicka was keen to deflect the attention on Tuesday.
“It’s good feedback for me personally but the boys know that I prefer the team awards,” he said.
“I see the award as good feedback for our job this season and I think I’m just part of the award.
“I’m enjoying my job at Sydney FC.”
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