PFA name Sydney’s Lavicka as Coach of the Year

Sydney FC coach Vitezslav Lavicka has been named Coach of the Year by the Professional Footballers Association.

The Czech tactician beat off competition from Wellington Phoenix mentor Ricki Herbert and Melbourne Victory’s Ernie Merrick to take out the prize.

In a poll of A-League players, the Sky Blues boss received 66 votes to beat Herbert on 30 and Merrick on 29.

In his first season in Australia, Lavicka guided Sydney to win the minor premiership or Premiers’ Plate and now has them in the Preliminary Final, just one step away from playing off in the Grand Final against arch rivals Melbourne Victory.

Sky Blues defender and PFA president Simon Colosimo said Lavicka had been a brilliant signing by the club and this award showed that opposing players agreed.

"Vitezslav has brought a different level of organisation, professionalism and culture to Sydney FC since he joined the club," Colosimo said.

"Our players understand their roles in the team and have confidence in the system we play.

"This confidence has driven a new level of unity amongst the playing group and staff.

"Obviously PFA members have recognised this when competing against us this year."