The nominations for the Sky Bet League 1 Player of the Month award for January.
Tom Aldred (Blackpool) – defenderA second straight nomination for the lynchpin of a defence which let in just three goals in six games, including fixtures against the top three. His goalline clearance preserved the win over Gillingham and he also scored against Scunthorpe United.
Bradley Dack (Gillingham) – midfielder
Smooth as silk in January, influencing games with his willingness to run at players and his eye for a pass. Followed up a lovely strike against Bradford City with a perfect assist at Doncaster Rovers and a late winner at home to Peterborough United.
Sam Winnall (Barnsley) - striker
Form streaks don’t come much better than this. Seven goals and two assists were rewards for his direct running and bravery in the box. His goal tally included a 'perfect' right foot, left foot, header hat-trick in the 6-1 win over Rochdale.
AJ Leitch-Smith (Port Vale) - striker
Almost single-handedly carried Vale’s goalscoring burden with four of their five goals, which accounted for seven points, including away wins at Blackpool and Doncaster. His pace and nippy movement were a constant worry for defenders.