Hartson wins writers' top prize

Tony Mowbray has had a fantastic first season at Hibs

Celtic striker John Hartson has been voted the Scottish Football Writers' Association player of the year.

The 30-year-old Wales international leads the scoring charts in the Scottish Premier League.

Hibernian manager Tony Mowbray was named Tennent's manager of the year after steering the club to the brink of a third place finish in the SPL table.

And it was a double celebration for Hibs, with Derek Riordan named as the SFWA young player of the year.

Last month Hartson shared the Scottish PFA's player of the year award with Rangers midfielder Fernando Ricksen.

SFWA president Jim Black said: "Hartson epitomises the modern-day professional with his total contribution on the field.

"He has also scored many important goals this season for Celtic and he is a worthy winner."

Riordan has also enjoyed a wonderful season, netting 22 times for Mowbray's side.

Former Ipswich coach Mowbray is in his first season as a manager and has dramatically turned around the fortunes of the Easter Road club.

Hibs finished eighth in the table last year with 48 points.

With three games remaining, Mowbray's exciting young side have already picked up 60 points and are on the verge of Uefa Cup qualification.

"Tony has worked wonders in difficult circumstances," Black added.

"He has set high standards in his first managerial job and no-one can argue with this choice."