ESSEX COUNTY STANDARD TOWN CORRESPONDENT MATT PLUMMER DELIVERS HIS WEEKLY THOUGHTS ON THE NEWS FROM PORTMAN ROAD:

I got a nice surprise when I booted my computer on Monday morning.

“Wickham Wins Awards” was the headline screaming out as I checked the net for Ipswich news.

The story was about Connor Wickham being named Young Player of the Year and Championship Apprentice of the Year at Sunday’s Football League Awards in London.

What a superb achievement and more proof of his blossoming, rich potential.

As a fan, I was delighted and it’s no wonder Town boss Paul Jewell joked about Wickham’s various accolades – suggesting he might even be in line for a BAFTA.

But when you think about it and put your hand on your heart, was he really a worthy winner? I’m not so sure.

Yes, Wickham has dominated headlines and has the tools to play in the Premier League and for England.

Yes, he blasted a hat-trick in Town’s 6-0 romp at Doncaster and he also scored an individual wonder goal against Sheffield United.

But I can’t help thinking that the hype and media attention surrounding his name, rather than his performances, were a major factor in his awards double.

Some would argue he’s done well playing out of position.

It’s hard to disagree but you have to take into consideration the fact that apart from the obvious highs, there have also been lows for the former Colchester schoolboy.

Wickham has become a regular starter but among his appearances have been many quiet displays.

A recent example was last Saturday, when he was poor and missed headed opportunities against Scunthorpe.

I’m not knocking him for that, simply because he’s young and raw.

I’m just not sure Wickham is the best young player in the Championship.

There are probably others with less fashionable names at less fashionable clubs worthy of a shout.

And the two other nominated players must also have fancied their chances.

Watford’s Will Buckley has been a pivotal figure all season, driving his side to the fringes of the play-offs.

Henri Lansbury, too, has been a major influence at Norwich, since joining on loan from Arsenal.

The Canaries are in with a firm shout of automatic promotion and the midfielder’s performances and four goals have been a key factor.

Football is all about opinions and I’m still delighted for Connor.

Now I just hope he builds on this success and finishes the season with a flourish – proving me wrong and the selectors right.