Liam Kinsella is a champion in Walsall community

The midfielder, who has been with the Saddlers since he was eight, was given the award in recognition of his outstanding work in the community.

Kinsella is out of contract this summer with Saddlers supporters hoping the 23-year-old will be given a new deal at the Banks’s Stadium.

The Republic of Ireland youth international was one of the few players who impressed on the field during the 2018/19 campaign.

But he also impressed off it, with the youngster using his spare time to meet with and speak to children at a host of local primary schools over the past 12 months.

He also tried to pass on some wisdom and tips at a number of training sessions for aspiring footballers.

And that work has led to him being named Walsall’s community champion, an award which is given in conjunction with the PFA.

“I’m really proud to have won the award,” Kinsella said. “There have been some really enjoyable visits in the community this year and I was pleased to be a part of them.

“As footballers, we are really privileged to do what we do, so I always try to give something back where I can.”

Back in September, Kinsella was named Walsall’s PFA Player Ambassador for Sports Participation after he spoke of his passion to get children active and involved in sport.

And Adam Davy, the club’s community director, believes Kinsella fully deserves the awards he’s been given.

“Liam has been the standout player in the community this season, and is a deserving winner of Community Player of the Year,” he said.

“It’s clear he really understands the importance being involved in the local community, and the impact he can have.

“We’d also like to thank all of the Walsall players and staff for their support of community visits throughout the campaign.”

Walsall’s other end-of-the-season awards were announced on social media prior to the game against Shrewsbury on Saturday.

Andy Cook was named player of the season after top scoring with 18 goals.

Nicky Devlin picked up the players’ player of the season award.

While Kinsella also scooped goal of the season for his stunning strike in the FA Cup win at Sunderland.

Alfie Bates, who signed his first professional contract with the club last week, won apprentice of the season.

Meanwhile, ex-Saddlers goalkeeper Neil Etheridge has continued his meteoric rise by being crowned Cardiff’s player of the season.

The 29-year-old enjoyed two successful years with the Saddlers after joining in 2015. But after leaving to join the Bluebirds he has gone on to win promotion to the Premier League, where he has saved three penalties.