City manager Nigel Pearson was named Coach of the Year at the 2009 Leicester Mercury Sports Awards. The Foxes' boss was unable to attend the event at the Walkers Stadium but was presented with the award by Chairman Milan Mandaric and sent a message of thanks.

Pearson beat off stiff competition from Leicester Tigers Head Coach Richard Cockerill and City of Leicester swimming coach Ashley Dawson.

The award reflects an excellent 2009, which saw City promoted back to the Championship at the first attempt as League One winners, and end the year in the race for promotion to the Premier League.

In the calendar year Pearson's side lost just seven of the 46 games they played. The year has included a number of fantastic moments including the late win against Leeds United in April and Championship wins over the likes of Sheffield United and QPR.