Who will be top manager, player?
Here are the nominations for the Sky Bet League 1 manager and player-of-the-month awards for September.Manager of the month
Darren Ferguson (Peterborough United)
Even more impressive than his side’s 10 points from four games is that three were away from home, while two of the wins - against previously unbeaten Milton Keynes Dons and Rotherham United – came through the team spirit he has instilled.
Simon Grayson (Preston North End)
A perfect month with a maximum four victories and a goal differential of 8-2. The experience he brought in through the likes of Kevin Davies this summer began to pay off and brought belief back to the Deepdale faithful.
Graham Kavanagh (Carlisle United)
An impeccable audition for the Carlisle United post, leading to his full-time appointment. Succeeding Greg Abbott, he infused the Carlisle team with a confidence that had been missing, leading them to three wins out of three and a mid-table position.
Dean Smith (Walsall)
Masterminded an outstanding sequence of results in an unbeaten month given the opposition. It included ending Leyton Orient’s perfect record and winning the Black Country derby against Wolverhampton Wanderers, both on their travels.
The judging panel comprises former Charlton Athletic manager Alan Curbishley; Sky Sports Football League expert Don Goodman; Football League Chief Operating Officer Andy Williamson; League Managers’ Director Olaf Dixon and Sky Bet Head of Football Paul Wiggins and the winner will be announced on Friday.
Player of the month
Britt Assombalonga (Peterborough United)- striker
Showcased his range of striking talents in the 3-0 win at Bristol City, firstly with an impeccably-timed rising shot, then a dreamy run, dribbling away from defenders and finishing emphatically. Also scored against Milton Keynes Dons.
Scott Laird (Preston North End)– full-back
Returned to his rampaging best during September as an attacking left-back who provides assists and goals. He did both in the 3-0 win over former club Stevenage and has added balance and power on the left side of the Preston team.
David Mooney (Leyton Orient)– striker
Four goals in as many games helped to continue Leyton Orient’s stunning start. The first of his two in the 3-2 win over Port Vale was a beautifully timed volley. Dovetails with strike partner Kevin Lisbie to pull defenders around.
Kyle Reid (Bradford City)- winger
Regained his place with a string of match-winning displays on the left. Terrorised defenders and added pace to the Bradford City attack. His crosses and dead ball delivery provided chances for others while he scored the equaliser against Shrewsbury Town.
The judging panel comprises Sky Sports Football League expert Don Goodman; Football League Head of Communications John Nagle; League Managers’ Association Director Olaf Dixon and Sky Bet Head of Football Paul Wiggins. The winner will be named on Friday.