Man City goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu nominated for prestigious EFL award

Manchester City goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu has been named on the three-man shortlist for the League One Young Player of the Season, following a terrific stint at Portsmouth.

The Republic of Ireland international — who joined City from Shamrock Rovers in February 2019 — signed for the League One outfit on loan for the duration of the season to develop and earn regular first-team minutes. He has been outstanding for the Fratton Park club this season, developing at a rapid rate and drawing praise.

Bazunu, who only turned 20 in February, has also seen his international career take off as a result of his temporary stint on the South Coast. He has cemented himself as the Republic of Ireland's first choice shot-stopper this term and famously saved a penalty from Cristiano Ronaldo during a clash with Portugal back in September.

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But whilst he has thrived on the international stage, he has done the same at Portsmouth. He has kept 17 clean sheets in all competitions, including 16 in League One, meaning only Michael Cooper of Plymouth Argyle (17) has kept more this season.

And it is statistics like those that have seen Bazunu shortlisted for the League One Young Player of the Season gong. The shot-stopper has been named on the shortlist alongside Paddy Lane of Fleetwood Town and Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil.

Bazunu has earned rave reviews throughout the season, not least from Portsmouth manager Danny Cowley. He has waxed lyrical about him on countless occasions and has tipped him for great success.

Speaking earlier this month, Cowley said: "He's exceptional. I have spoken about him many times and I normally don't speak about the young