It may have arrived in difficult circumstances but Tim Krul still feels honoured to have become just the fifth goalkeeper to be named Player of the Season in Norwich City’s history.

The 32-year-old was the favourite to win it after a consistent campaign littered with spectacular saves, beating Todd Cantwell to the Barry Butler Memorial Trophy in votes from Canaries fans, with Alex Tettey in third.

Krul was presented with the trophy at Colney this week as City prepare to conclude their season behind closed doors, with relegation already confirmed ahead of Sunday’s trip to Manchester City.

“It’s a big honour. To be part of the history of the club is special,” said the Dutchman.

“It hasn’t been the ideal outcome this season, we obviously wanted to stay up. But to get an individual accolade like this is something to be proud of.”

Kevin Keelan and Byran Gunn both won the award twice during their lengthy careers as City number ones, with Chris Woods also winning it in 1984 and Andy Marshall in 2001.

“I know Bryan Gunn very well, he’s a legend here. I had the honour to meet Kevin Keelan in Tampa Bay as well,” Krul added.

“In years to come, I’ll look back on this trophy and realise in a few years how special it is.”

Krul was an ever-present as City won the Championship title last season and has only missed two Premier League games due to injury, earning a recall to the Holland squad in March for the first time since a serious knee injury in 2015.

“It’s been an amazing two years so far and some journey. From when I first came in to now, it’s been an incredible 24 months,” he added, speaking to City’s official website.

“I do feel there’s a massive connection there with the fans. It’s a shame they’re not at Carrow Road at the moment but leading up to the break, they were right behind us and the atmosphere is second to none.

“I had a rough start and everybody was doubting me after the first few games. And then the journey kicked in, I felt my confidence coming back and we started to get a few wins off the back of that.

“My relationship with the fans has gone from strength to strength ever since then.”