Romelu Lukaku’s reaction and acceptance speech at the Club’s awards evening said it all.
When his name was read out as the winner of the Players’ Player of the Season, the Belgian had a glance across his shoulder to acknowledge his teammate before stepping off his seat to accept the trophy from host Mark Chapman.
“I’m genuinely surprised,” declared the Lukaku. “For me, personally, I thought Gana would win. He has been the best player, consistently.”
Ultimately, 25 Premier League goals had been enough to secure the award ahead of his colleague but, on centre stage, Lukaku felt it important to highlight the contributions of a player little-known on Merseyside just 12 months ago.