The September nominations for the Sky Bet League One Manager of the Month Award are:
Matt Bloomfield (Wycombe Wanderers)
If August contained difficult fixtures and the need to bed in new signings, September offered proof that Bloomfield’s possession-based, through-the-lines approach is working, moving Wycombe into the top half with three wins from three games.
Steve Bruce (Blackpool)
A multiple Championship Manager of the Month winner, Bruce used his experience and know-how to superb effect in Sky Bet League One, winning a perfect first four games at Blackpool, simplifying tactics and allowing his new players to express themselves.
Nigel Clough (Mansfield Town)
Clough has overseen a seamless transition to League One following promotion, showing his versatility by changing formations for different opponents, yet still maintaining momentum and leading Mansfield to a perfect nine points.
Chris Davies (Birmingham City)
Under Davies, Birmingham have become a relentless, high-cadence team, wearing down opponents with slick passing and high fitness levels. That was evident as they came from behind in two of their three victories from three matches.
The September nominations for the Sky Bet League One Player of the Month Award are:
Will Aimson (Wigan Athletic) – central defender
An experienced head brought in to replace the departed Charlie Hughes, Aimson has quickly become a pivotal member of a Wigan defence which kept a clean sheet in all four September games. Positionally superb, he is a key organiser.
Ethan Galbraith (Leyton Orient) - midfielder
The creative spark in an improving Orient side. Galbraith’s attacking dynamism and passing ability was on full show in the 4-1 win at Stockport in which he scored two clinically taken goals, also contributing an assist against Peterborough.
Tomoki Iwata (Birmingham City) – defensive midfielder
For a sitting midfielder who brings muscle and physicality to the middle of the pitch, the Japan international offers so much more to Birmingham, including impeccably timed strikes from distance against Wrexham and Rotherham.
Kwame Poku (Peterborough United) - winger
Poku has taken on more responsibility following the departure of Ephron Mason-Clark. Whether floating across the front line or cutting in from his wing, his three goals in four games either equalised or put Posh in front on each occasion.