Leeds United defender Pontus Jansson has admitted that he was flattered to be selected in the Professional Footballers' Association's Championship Team of the Year following his stellar 2018-19 campaign.
The charismatic Sweden centre-back also added that he has tried to grow more on the pitch so that people may like him - but that if they do not, he will not further himself to their expectations.
The 28-year-old was a mainstay of the Whites ' defence under Marcelo Bielsa during the Argentine's first season in charge, with their work at the back helping to transform the team from also-rans to play-off contenders.
His excellent form was recognised by his fellow managers and players when he was rewarded with a place in the PFA's Team of the Year for the second tier, alongside fellow United defender and captain Liam Cooper plus winger Pablo Hernandez.
Jansson, who is currently on international duty ahead of his nation's European Championship qualifiers against Malta and Spain, admitted that he was both honoured and surprised by his selection.
"Being chosen by experts is one thing," he told Aftonbladet . "But being picked by opponent coaches and players was actually honorable.
"I always thought people hated me on the pitch. It was f****** flattering and probably the finest accolade I have received."
Jansson has emerged as a cult figure favourite during his time at Elland Road but acknowledges that he strives to make himself a likeable player with each club he plays for.
"There are people who think I'm stupid in my head and wonder what I'm doing," he addded. "I try to develop myself so that more and more people will like me."
He concedes that he cannot please everybody however, noting: "If people do not like what I do I can only apologize. I can't do more."
Following his duty with Sweden, Jansson is expected to link up with United ahead of their pre-season tour to Australia.
