Fabian Wilnis

Early career

Wilnis began his career in the Sparta Rotterdam academy, joining the club's youth set up in 1985. After spending six years at Sparta Rotterdam he joined NAC Breda where he spend four years, making over 100 appearances for the club. In 1995 he signed for De Graafschap. He made over 100 appearances for the Dutch club between 1995 and 1999.

Ipswich Town

Wilnis signed for Ipswich Town in January 1999. The Dutchman joined the Blues from De Graafschap for £200,000, replacing Mauricio Taricco. Wilnis quickly established himself in the side and was a key part of George Burley's side which won promotion to the Premiership. He made his debut for Ipswich in a 1–0 loss to Grimsby Town on 9 January 1999. Wilnis featured frequently during the remainder of the 1998–99 season as Ipswich finished 3rd in the First Division, losing out to Bolton Wanderers on aggregate over two legs in the First Division play-offs. He scored his first goal for the club on 3 April 1999, netting the final goal in a 6–0 win over Swindon Town. He featured regularly during the 1999–2000 season as Ipswich challenged for promotion to the Premier League. He made his first appearance of the season on the opening day, featuring as a second-half substitute in a 3–1 home win over Nottingham Forest at Portman Road. He made 40 appearances in all competitions over the course of the season as Ipswich once again finished 3rd in the First Division, qualifying for the play-offs as a result. Ipswich…

Ipswich Town

Football League First Division play-offs: 2000 Individual

Ipswich Town Player of the Year: 2005–06