Pratley of the Match - Milwall v Bolton Wanderers

"These players aren't good enough"

The self-defeating words of our not-so-glorious former manager.

This bunch of no-hopers have been revitalised and none more so than Darren Pratley.

Yes, Andy Lonergan has been transformed from a keeper always likely to drop a clanger to a impenetrable last line of defence. Yes, a defence that couldn't buy a clean sheet is now a well-oiled machine with just the addition of youth and tenacity in Josh Vela.

Yes, Chung-Yong Lee looks like the Premier League quality playmaker from three years ago. And yes,  Neil Danns has been a hub of hustle and bustle patrolling midfield.

But our Darren Pratley has shone like no one else in the last 6 weeks. From terrace boo boy to match winner, the change in his play and confidence has been terrific to witness.

The fact he missed a host of presentable opportunities but still had the desire to run onto Chungy's terrific through ball, shimmy his way past a desperate challenge from ex-White Danny Shittu, and blast the ball high past David Forde was testament to this new found belief in his game.

This is a team that would never have come away from the Lion's Den with even a draw in the dark days of Dougie Freedman's tenure. It just shows what a positive mindset and an inspiring voice can do for players.

So here's to a great Christmas and to our man of the match Darren Pratley!

Ho ho ho!!!