Rickie Lambert thought Adam Lallana was going to win the Championship's Player of the Year award.

Lambert was shortlisted with two other players - Lallana and Cardiff City's Peter Whittingham.

He said: "I'm proud but surprised because I thought Adam was going to get it. He's been unbelievable this season.

"Adam gave me a big hug and said I deserved it which was nice.

"He's a lovely lad as well as being a great player.

"I have said countless times I think he is the best player in the league; he is something special.

"Players like Adam make my life easier, scoring goals with him around is a whole lot easier."

Lambert's success comes less than a year after many doubted whether he could make the step up to the Championship.

"It's nice to prove them wrong, that drove me on a little bit but I was more than confident.

"It's very satisfying but the main thing is to get promotion."