The Irish League continues to be well represented across the water.
A number of our homegrown stars have impressed this season, whether it be in the English and Scottish top flights or in the lower divisions.
It has been encouraging to watch the likes of Stuart Dallas and Shayne Lavery make their mark, the pair just two of many players doing the Irish Premiership proud.
We recently asked our readers to pick out any former Irish League players who have impressed the most this season.
The same names came up in many answers, and here they are...
1. Stuart Dallas - Leeds United
The former Crusaders winger has been a shining light for Leeds in the Premier League this season. And while Marcelo Bielsa's side has failed to sparkle in 2021/22, Dallas has been a consistent performer. The versatile Dallas has featured in every single one of Leeds' 21 Premier League games this season. He has played in several positions for Bielsa including full-back, wing and centre midfield.
2. Shayne Lavery - Blackpool
Another popular choice by our readers. The former Linfield striker has enjoyed a stellar debut season with Blackpool in the Championship. The Northern Ireland international has scored nine goals in 25 appearances this season, including 7 in 22 league games. Not bad for a player who missed a number of weeks through injury last October/November.
3. Liam Boyce - Hearts
The former Cliftonville talisman is enjoying a brilliant season for Hearts in the Scottish Premiership. Boyce has bagged an impressive 14 goals in 23 appearances for the Jambos, including eight in the top flight. Boyce has been pivotal in helping Hearts climb into third spot in the Scottish Premiership.
4. Mark Sykes - Oxford United
Another player picked out by fans as having a solid season. Former Glenavon man Sykes has made 30 appearances across all competitions for Oxford this season, including starting against Wigan Athletic on Tuesday night in EFL League One. He has also scored eight goals in 24 games in the league, including a run of four in five games during December.
5. Michael Smith - Hearts
Like striker Boyce, former Ballymena United defender Smith has been a prominent figure in Hearts' climb up the Scottish Premiership table this season. The Northern Ireland full-back has played in 18 of the club's 24 league games this season and recently penned a new contract with the Tynecastle club.
Who would you include in our list? Let us know in the comments...
