Player of the Month -- August 2005: Fabian Wilnis
Last updated : 07 October 2005 By Paul Whyatt
With the Preston defeat apart, Town's back-line has been one of great solidarity and strength, with clean sheets being kept against a well-orgainised Cardiff side and a Leicester front-line that included a goal-prolific David Connolly.
Mathew Richards has at times been immense in the left-back slot for Town – most noticeably in the first-half at Leicester and the home-tie against Sheffield Wednesday. Castro Sito's pace and attacking prowess has made him an instant hit with the fans, whilst Richard Naylor has been like a rock in the heart of Town's defence until his controversial dismissal at The New Den hindered Ipswich's progress against PNE.
Indeed, Joe Royle's problems now seem to exist at the other end of the pitch where he'll be desperate to have Nicky Foster back in time for a certain fixture on September 18.
But amidst an extremely young and limited Town squad, the one figure who stands out above anyone else has to be the very much dependable Fabian Wilnis.
Having looked to have been on his way out of Portman Road under George Burley in 2002, the Dutch right-back's future was plunged into further darkness this summer when Spaniard Sito arrived as a free agent.
But a cracked-ribs injury to Jason DeVos has seen Wilnis drafted into the centre of the defence, and the former NAC Breda player has not disappointed.
His composure on the ball and timing in crucial tackles has led Joe Royle into believing his future at Town now lies in the heart of the defence, with DeVos facing stiff competition to get back in the starting eleven when recovered from his unfortunate injury.
Whatever Royle asks of Wilnis, the 35-year-old has not let him down. He is a crucial part of the Tractor Boys' team-spirit and could be described as Town's unsung hero of the past few seasons.
