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Portsmouth manager slams ‘ridiculous’ Gavin Bazunu omission from team of the year

Published 15:37 26 Apr 2022 BST

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"It is one of the most ridiculous decisions ever."

Danny Cowley was shocked that Gavin Bazunu wasn't included in the EFL League One Team of the Year following his monumental season for Portsmouth. The Republic of Ireland international has kept 16 clean sheets in 42 league appearances for Pompey, who sit in ninth place. Yet, he did not make the annual team, with Michael Cooper of Plymouth getting the nod ahead of the former Shamrock Rovers 'keeper.

Danny Cowley was baffled by Gavin Bazunu's omission.

The Portsmouth manager was outraged that Bazunu was excluded by the EFL, and labelled the omission as "one of the most ridiculous decisions ever." "I don't know who makes those decisions. How?" Cowley saidsaid on the club website. "Just tell me how he didn't get in the team? Whoever picks it, I don't know, it is one of the most ridiculous decisions ever." There was some Irish representation in the team of the year, however, as James McClean was included.

Cowley on Ronan Curtis scoring his 50th goal for Portsmouth.

Meanwhile, Cowley was full of praise for Ronan Curtis after he scored his 50th goal for Portsmouth with a brace in the 3-1 win over Gillingham on Saturday. The Ireland international was described as "very competitive and robust" by Cowley, who also has improved the statistical side of his attacking game. "It's an excellent achievement when you consider that he’s mostly a wide player and he’s someone who gives his all for the team," he added about the former Derry City winger. "Ronan is very competitive and robust, while he always carries a goal threat and his assists have gone up considerably." Portsmouth play Wigan tonight at Fratton Park. A point would guarantee promotion to the Championship for the Latics.