Source: Daily_Mail
Julio Arca scoops Middlesbrough supporters' Player of the Year award
ShareJulio Arca has been voted Middlesbrough supporters' player of the season. [LNB]The former Sunderland midfielder, who is back in Argentina after a knee operation, praised new boss Tony Mowbray after picking up his second fans' award. [LNB]The 30-year-old is now out of contract and although attracting interest from West Bromwich and Wigan, he may be prepared to take a pay cut to stay on Teesside. [LNB] Honoured: Middlesbrough supporters have selected midfielder Arca (left) as the best player this season[LNB]Arca said: 'It's the manager who has made the difference. As soon as this manager came in, my performances got a lot better. I felt like I had freedom to play, that's probably why the fans saw me as their player of the year. [LNB]'At the beginning of the season, it wasn't as good as I wanted. I wasn't always involved in the team, I was in and out, while the team wasn't doing well either. [LNB]Positive signs: Middlesbrough manager Mowbray[LNB]'When Tony came in he started to change things around and gave me the chance to play. He showed me that he trusted me. When the manager gives you support and shows you that you are important to him, you are happy to play anywhere. [LNB]'The manager's philosophy of playing is how I like to play football. He has given me the chance to play every week, that always helps, while the team has got better, which you can see by the results. [LNB]'Everything seems to be going in the right direction and hopefully next year will be better.'[LNB]Whether Arca will be part of that better future is open to debate. Withhis five-year Boro contract running out this summer, he is waiting on an offer from the club, but will also consider other options. [LNB]However,he is thankful to the fans, not only to those who voted for him but also to all those who gave him their support over the past five years. [LNB]'I'dlike to thank the fans for their support,' he said. 'I know I've had myups and downs with them. A couple of years ago I was getting boos from some of them but I always gave my best for the club, though sometimes your best isn't good enough. But, whatever happens next, I will always remember the way they have treated me, so a big thank you to the fans.'[LNB] Bolton set for another raid on Boro with ?3m summer move for Williams Cardiff 0 Middlesbrough 3: Bluebirds slump ends automatic promotion hopeMiddlesbrough braced for a battle to keep Williams and BennettNorthern Exposure: Positive signs for Boro despite a disappointing season[LNB]
