The winner of the Sky Bet League Two Manager of the Month for September is...
Mark Bonner (Cambridge United)
Cambridge United manager Mark Bonner has been named the Sky Bet League Two Manager of the Month for September.
The six-month break between seasons ground to a halt the momentum Bonner built up in January and February. It didn’t deter his team from going undefeated, collecting seven points from three games with an 8-0 goal differential.
Bonner said: “I'm really pleased and grateful for the recognition because it's reflective of a good month for us as a team, albeit after only three League games with two wins, a draw and no goals conceded. We'd have taken that before a ball was kicked though, and it reflects a nice beginning to the season for us.
"We have to maintain that, because ultimately we have to get to a point as a team where we put ourselves in positions to win individual and team accolades in a month where we play eight games.”
Danny Wilson chairs the Sky Bet Manager of the Month judging panel.
He said: “It was a very impressive start to the season, as Cambridge slammed in eight goals, and conceded none, giving Mark and his team maximum points and a dream start to their Sky Bet League Two campaign.”
Sky Sports’ EFL pundit Don Goodman said: “The U’s have started the season in fine form, showing a ruthlessness in front of goal that is a breath of fresh air in Sky Bet League Two.
“Before claiming a hard-earned point against Tranmere, Mark Bonner’s side where flawless in their opening two matches of the campaign, putting Carlisle and Morecambe to the sword, 3-0 and 5-0 respectively.
“Bonner has his side well-drilled, and it goes without saying on the evidence of the opening weeks that League Two sides are going to find it tough when they visit Abbey Stadium this season.”
Sky Bet EFL trader Ivor Davies said: “Mark Bonner has made a good start to his managerial career, guiding Cambridge to the top of Sky Bet League Two after three games, winning two, drawing one and scoring 8 goals in the process.
“Sky Bet had Cambridge down as one of the teams that might struggle this season – they were priced at 13/2 for relegation before the season started but are now as big as 16/1.
“It’s too early for judgment in League Two so far, but the U’s currently sit in forth and who knows where they might end up but we currently have them at 9/4 shot from 9/2 to make the Play-Offs, which would represent a very good first season in charge for Bonner."
The winner of the Sky Bet League Two Player of the Month for September is...
Ian Henderson (Salford City)
Salford City striker Ian Henderson has been named the Sky Bet League Two Player of the Month for September. Unwanted by Rochdale, Henderson has taken his scoring boots to Salford and carried on doing what he does best. Four goals in three games included a hat-trick at Grimsby where he calmly despatched two penalties – evidence of his leadership qualities.
Salford manager Graham Alexander said: “We are delighted Hendo has received this award. The quality in his play and commitment to his profession are a great example and he’s made a massive impact since he joined.
“He’s a joy to work with and we look forward to seeing his contribution to the team continue throughout the season in the same vein."
Henderson said: ““It’s always nice to pick up a personal accolade like that but I’ll always reiterate it’s the team and the players that have enabled that achievement and that award so I want to say thank you to the lads for putting me in goalscoring positions.
"It’s always nice to hit the ground running but I think that’s been built on a solid foundation, a good pre-season and we took our pre-season straight into the season. We have started off well as a team and we’ve got to just keep our feet on the ground, carry on working hard as a team and win as many games as possible.”
Sky Sports’ EFL pundit Don Goodman said: “He may be well into his mid-30s, but Ian Henderson guarantees goals at this level and Salford fans will be overjoyed at the start he’s made to life at the Peninsula Stadium. The 35-year-old is a natural born leader and he let his actions do the talking in September, netting four goals in three for City.
“Henderson’s hat-trick away to Grimsby was the highlight, where he showcased how clinical he can be, both in open play and from the spot.”
Sky Bet EFL trader Ivor Davies said: “Ian Henderson hit the ground running at Salford with four goals in three games, including a great hat-trick at Grimsby.
“This has cemented his place at the head of the betting for the League Two Golden Boot Award at 11/4 from 10/1 before a ball was kicked.
“Salford were our second ranked team going into the season and after Bolton’s dreadful start The Ammies are now favourites to win the title with Sky Bet at 5/1.
“Although we have Salford as just about the best team in the division, there isn’t much in it all, and this looks to be an ultra-competitive division this season.
“Nevertheless the Class of 92 will be hoping that Henderson’s goals will prove the difference as they look to achieve their fifth promotion in seven seasons since buying the club in 2014. We have them as a 5/4 shot to go up this time around.”