CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM OF THE YEAR
17/04/2026
PFA Scotland are delighted to announce the Championship Team of the Year for 2025/26, supported by 1st Class Credit Union.
The Team of the Year is voted by fellow professionals across the Championship, with players given the opportunity to choose an XI in a 4-3-3 formation. This season’s team features representatives from three clubs.
Goalkeeper
Toby Steward (St Johnstone)
Joining on loan from Portsmouth, Steward has been a pivotal part of Saints title charge. The keeper has accumulated the most clean sheets in the division with 17.
Defender
Ben McPherson (Partick Thistle)
It’s been a successful loan spell for the young Celtic defender in Maryhill – so much so, Mark Wilson has secured the full-back on a permanent contract. The 22-year-old has impressed players across the Championship with his dynamism and consistency.
Jeremiah Chilokoa-Mullen (Dunfermline Athletic)
The Scotland U21 captain has been one of the standout defenders in the Championship this season. After joining from Leeds United 18 months ago, Chilokoa-Mullen has been a mainstay for Neil Lennon’s men and will look to end the season in style.
Cheick Diabaté (St Johnstone)
It’s been a successful first season in Perth for Diabaté. The centre-half has been a key component of the league’s best defence since his move from Bradford.
Robbie Fraser (Dunfermline Athletic)
The Pars have enjoyed Fraser’s dynamic style since his move from Rangers. The full-back has contributed 6 assists in the Championship and continues to go from strength to strength in Fife.
Midfielder
Ben Stanway (Partick Thistle)
The Thistle academy graduate has been a standout for Mark Wilson’s side this term. Stanway has 10 goal contributions in his 29 league games and is expected to have a big impact in the Jags aim to bring Premiership football back to Firhill.
Reece McAlear (St Johnstone)
A summer signing from Livingston, McAlear has been recognised as one of the Championship’s best midfielders. With 4 goals and 8 assists, the 24-year-old has been influential for the Saints as they look to secure their return to the topflight.
Jason Holt (St Johnstone)
As one of the division’s most experienced players, its no surprise that Holt has had a big say in the Championship title race. Bringing composure combined with a hard-working style, the Saints skipper has been recognised by his peers in this season’s Team of the Year.
Forward
Jamie Gullan (St Johnstone)
After making the switch from Raith Rovers last summer, Gullan has enjoyed the most productive season of his career. Chipping in with 9 goals and 12 assists, the forward has made a big impact in Perth as Saints look to bounce-back to the topflight at the first attempt.
Alex Samuel (Partick Thistle)
With previous experience in the Championship, the Welshman has been a shrewd signing for the Jags. Samuel brought a clinical edge to the Thistle front-line producing match-winning moments across the campaign.
Josh McPake (St Johnstone)
St Johnstone winger McPake has scored more than any other player in the Championship and has been in outstanding form throughout the season. With 16 goals, McPake has proven to be a thorn in the side for many Championship defences this season.
