Chris Sutton has named midfielder Kenny McLean as his Norwich City player of the season ahead of the winner being announced this weekend. 

There is much debate over whether City's long-serving midfielder should edge the voting and receive his first Barry Butler memorial trophy, with Gabriel Sara and Angus Gunn among the other names mentioned for the accolade. 

McLean has been an ever-present member of City's side this season, even filling in as a makeshift central defender on occasion when required. 

Norwich fought off interest from Daniel Farke and Leeds United last summer to keep McLean, and he has proven his significance in a campaign that everyone of a yellow and green persuasion is hoping ends in play-off success. 

In Grant Hanley's absence, the Scot has worn the armband and is a leading presence in the dressing room. His consistency and contribution to the City cause is worthy of recognition - giving him the edge over Gunn in Sutton's picks. 

"I've liked Angus Gunn again. Sara is a flair player and a good player. But for me it is between Gunn and Kenny McLean," Sutton said. 

"I'm going to say McLean for this season. I like him a lot. He's a good player, a good leader, and doesn't shirk anything. When he was asked to play centre half this season, he just got on with it, whether he liked it or not. 

"Norwich are lucky to have him, and he will be key to driving the club forward. Now, with the play-offs hopefully ahead, they will look to him and others like Ashley Barnes and Shane Duffy, to really pull the players through.

Norwich Evening News: Gabriel Sara won the Barry Butler memorial trophy last season.Gabriel Sara won the Barry Butler memorial trophy last season. (Image: Daniel Hanbury/Focus Images Ltd)

"I think McLean is a player who is celebrated by both players and supporters. If you look at a Norwich team without him, it feels like there is an enormous void. 

"He is important in terms of knitting everything together. He's been at the club a long time, he's well-respected and I think he carries a fair bit of clout. 

"Keeping him fit will be key. I would have McLean just edging Angus Gunn for the award with Sara in third." 

The official winner will be presented with the award ahead of Saturday's game against Swansea City at Carrow Road.