Simons captures Belgian award
Thursday, January 16, 2003
Article summary
Club Brugge KV midfield player Timmy Simons has been named Belgian Player of the Year.
Article body
Sonck only second
The Club Brugge KV midfield player won the Golden Shoe vote ahead of the Eerste Klasse's leading scorer, Wesley Sonck of KRC Genk, who lifted it last year, and K. Sint Truidense VV's Danny Boffin.
Brügge back at the top
"I am surprised by the award," said Simons, who impressed for Belgium during the FIFA World Cup and played a key role in helping Brügge win the domestic title. "I always thought that either Sonck or Boffin would win it as a forward and a playmaker have more chances to do spectacular things than a defensive player like me.
Van Der Elst tribute
"I am especially happy with the fact that I am the first player from Brugge to win the trophy since my idol Franky Van Der Elst in 1996," he added.
Coaches' comments
It is great to have him win the prize
