The Dutchman was contributed to 25 league goals this season, scoring 18 and assisting a further nine as Leeds set their sights on an immediate return to the Premier League.
In doing so, he joins an exclusive list of winners since the award’s inception in 2006, rubbing shoulders with full internationals, Premier League stalwarts and players who’ve gone on to command tens of millions of pounds in transfer fees.
7. 2012 - Rickie Lambert
Southampton striker Rickie Lambert was crowned EFL Championship Player of the Year in 2011/12, ultimately going on to play for England.
8. 2013 - Matej Vydra
The Czech forward scored 20 goals in 41 appearances whilst on loan at Watford in 2012/13.
9. 2014 - Danny Ings
Burnley's 2013/14 promotion was spear-headed by forward Danny Ings.
10. 2015 - Patrick Bamford
Bamford was ultimately left disappointed in 2015 as the then-Middlesbrough striker was beaten in the play-off final. He would go on to secure promotion five years later with Leeds.
11. 2016 - Andre Gray
Ex-Watford striker Gray was the focal point for Burnley as the Clarets were once again promoted in 2016.
12. 2017 - Anthony Knockaert
The Belgian winger played a key role for Brighton and Hove Albion in 2016/17 as the Seagulls clinched promotion to the Premier League for the first time.