Player of the Season Awards: FC Heidenheim's Player of the Season | OneFootball

FC Heidenheim’s season still hangs in the balance when writing this piece as they take on SV Elversberg in the promotion/relegation play-off. After the highs of eighth place last year and a run to the knockout rounds of the UEFA Conference League this season, Frank Schmidt’s side paid the price for managing a third competition with a limited squad. Something that can’t be blamed on players or management, rather a consequence of punching above your weight in the modern game.

While votes from our team of writers were varied and widespread, Jan Schöppner did just enough to pick up this honour. The central midfielder, capable of playing in a more defensive role, was invaluable all season and played over 2,688 minutes. Despite Heidenheim boasting one of the lowest possession averages in the league, Schöppner was one of their more assured passers and helped stabilise their central third.

Schöppner chipped in with 4 goals and 2 assists across the campaign and considering he only turns 26 next month, the German could still have a lot to offer at the Voith Arena going forward. He also managed a whopping 373.8 kilometres of distance covered leaving him sixth overall in the league, highlighting his work rate.

STANDOUT PERFORMANCE:

Although Heidenheim only managed 8 wins all season, a 3-0 triumph over Union Berlin on Matchday 33 proved to be crucial in avoiding direct relegation. Frank Schmidt’s side opened the scoring on 12 minutes as Schöppner played a crucial pass to Pieringer who unselfishly assisted Adrian Beck.

Ten minutes after the break and Schöppner’s sheer will and determination got him on the scoresheet. He nipped in to pick Kevin Vogt’s pockets and cooly slotted it beneath Ronnow. Beck added the third goal, but Schöppner emerged with 86% pass accuracy, 10 clearances, 7 ball recoveries and won 9 of his 11 duels across the game.

HONOURABLE MENTIONS:

Kevin Müller acquired two votes and was unlucky to miss out, particularly after fine performances against Stuttgart and Bochum. Club captain Patrick Mainka led by example in defence with the eighth-most duels won (338) in the league. Niklas Dorsch also picked up a vote, as did Mathias Honsak who deserves a special mention for his wonderful strikes against Leipzig and Stuttgart.