The Independent has proudly announced that Miguel Delaney and Adam Clery were among the top honorees at the 2025 Football Supporters’ Association Awards held in central London on Monday night. Delaney, the Chief Football Writer, was awarded the title of Football Writer of the Year, while Clery, who oversees Independent Studio’s The Adam Clery Football Channel, was celebrated as the Social Media of the Year winner.
With over 400,000 votes cast, the FSA Awards have secured their status as the largest supporter-led awards event in the UK. Delaney’s contributions to football journalism this year have been notable, highlighted by England’s dramatic triumph in the Women’s Euro 2025 final, where they clinched victory over Spain in a nail-biting penalty shootout. His book, “States of Play: How Sportswashing Took Over Football,” garnered the Charles Tyrwhitt Football Book of the Year award and received a nomination for the prestigious 2025 William Hill Sports Book of the Year.
In addition to his awards, Delaney has also launched his newsletter, “Miguel Delaney: Inside Football,” aimed at providing fans with in-depth insights as the football landscape prepares for the upcoming World Cup 2026.
Adam Clery has played a significant role in growing his YouTube channel, ACFC, which focuses on weekly tactical analyses of the Premier League and has attracted over 182,000 subscribers. His written contributions, including “The Adam Clery Football Column,” explore the sport’s many quirks and stories.
The evening also featured notable player acknowledgments, with Declan Rice, the Arsenal star, being named Men’s Player of the Year after besting standout players like Erling Haaland and Moises Caicedo. Rice expressed his gratitude, emphasizing the honor of being recognized by supporters and the team’s aspiration for continued success on multiple fronts.
In the women’s category, Alessia Russo secured the Women’s Player of the Year award, surpassing competitors such as Erin Cuthbert and Millie Bright. Russo shared her appreciation for the fans’ support and reflected on an incredible summer of achievements, including victories in both the Champions League and the Euros, inspiring a pathway for future triumphs.
This recognition of talent across both men’s and women’s football reflects a growing appreciation for the sport and its players, suggesting a promising future for football in the UK as both audiences and supporters continue to engage passionately with the game.
