Michael Murphy
Now that the dust has settled on the first weekend of the Allianz Football League, it's time to take a look at some of the outstanding performers.
Michael Murphy (Donegal), Emmett Bradley (Derry) and Paddy Andrews (Dublin) are all nominated for this week's award, the first of the 2016 season.
The voting process is simple: simply retweet the image of your chosen player on the GAA's official Twitter account (@officialgaa) or like their image on the GAA's official Facebook and Instagram pages.
Voting will close at 10am on Tuesday morning and the winner will be announced on GAA.ie.
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Michael Murphy (Donegal)
Michael Murphy (main photo) may have a quiet public persona, but Jim McGuinness’ recent autobiography lifted the lid on his incredible leadership abilities. What has always been apparent, however, is his unstinting greatness on the field of play. He was at it again in the win over Down on Saturday night, kicking eight points in Newry. Although seven came from placed balls, Murphy’s ability to score frees from just about anywhere inside the 45 - and sometimes beyond - should never be discounted. His first half sideline ball, which sailed right over the black spot, was a thing of real beauty, something only truly special players can conceive not to mind execute.
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Emmett Bradley
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Emmett Bradley (Derry)
With a Fergal Doherty-sized hole to fill in the Derry midfield, Emmett Bradley’s outstanding showing against Fermanagh couldn’t have come at a better time. He bookended a masterful display with beautiful scores at either end of the game, both kicked from very tough angles. The Glen man was given a huge reception by the home crowd when taken off with four minutes to go and has set a high standard for himself for the year ahead. Dynamic, energetic and strong in the air, Bradley has all the attributes to make a mark at this level.
Paddy Andrews
Paddy Andrews (Dublin)
Paddy Andrews’ performance on Saturday night was like a personal highlights reel. Although Diarmuid Connolly fed him a superb diagonal ball for the goal, Andrews’ catch and classy finish made it look so easy. Brilliant with both feet, when Andrews finds his groove he’s very hard to stop. Finished with 1-4, but on another night could have had three goals. Gave his marker the run-around and showed great leadership in the absence of Bernard Brogan and the retired Alan Brogan. A stellar showing from the silky St Brigid’s man.
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