The Sky Bet League Two Manager of the Month is:
Ian Holloway
January was the month in which Holloway’s methods brought greater defensive solidity to underpin Swindon’s attacking prowess.
As well as 13 points from six games, their greater unity saw goals scored by eight different players.
Holloway said: “It feels amazing to be recognised for the work we’ve achieved during January and I’m most grateful to win Manager of the Month.”
“However, the work of my players and my staff around me have all made it possible and the work behind the scenes shouldn’t go unnoticed.
“I accept this award as a team because, without each and every player and staff member around me, this wouldn’t be possible, but this is only the start, we’ve got such a long way to go to achieve our goals.”
Danny Wilson chairs the Sky Bet Championship Manager of the Month judging panel.
He said: “After a difficult first half of the season which saw Swindon entrenched in the relegation places, Ian and his team have put a terrific run of results together that has given them mid-table security.
“13 points in January with only one defeat is a solid return, especially from the position they were in.”
Sky Sports’ EFL pundit Don Goodman said: “Ian Holloway has added defensive stability to a team with lots of attacking potential in League Two.
“Swindon had a torrid start to the season but have really begun to turn it around under their new manager. January saw them pick up 13 points from six games as they climb to a comfortable position in mid-table.”
Sky Bet EFL trader Ivor Davies said: “Ian Holloway himself has said how much he’s loving being back in the dugout and it’s easy to see why!
“Swindon have been in superb form under the guidance of the experienced boss embarking on a five-game unbeaten run in League Two.
“Four consecutive wins have lifted them to 14th in the table giving them an outside chance of a Top 7 Finish, even if the odds remain unlikely at 22/1.
“Just a month ago though they were priced at 150/1, so while a playoff push still remains unlikely, the improvement under Holloway is clear.”
The Sky Bet League Two Player of the Month is:
Shaun Whalley
The second 37-year-old on this month’s League Two list, Whalley’s leadership skills and inspiration have lifted the young players around him, while his four goals in five games included a brilliant, impudent chip for the winner at Crewe.
Accrington Assistant Manager, Ged Brannan, added: “I am made up for Shaun - he is great, he is brilliant in the changing room, and he has been brilliant.
“He scored four goals last month at 37 years of age and it’s outstanding, he is a pleasure to work with, and hopefully he will get stronger.”
Whalley said: “I have been nominated a couple of times, but I have never won it. It’s really nice to win it, after 20 years of playing professional football.
“I was glad to win it, I knew I had been nominated and had a pretty good chance, but the most important thing is the team, and we had a good month, as a team.”
Sky Sports’ EFL pundit Don Goodman said: “Shaun Whalley has given Accrington Stanley a lift when they really needed one.
“He led from the front in January with four goals across their five games, including an incredible lob against Crewe.
“Whalley’s experience and form in front of goal will be crucial to his team beating the drop this season.”
Sky Bet EFL trader Ivor Davies said: “With one of the lowest wage budgets in the league and a squad full of young talent, Accrington’s primary goal is always to secure their place in the Football League.
“Heading into the new year they were a 4/1 shot for relegation but a crucial run of three wins in January has eased those fears a bit.
“As a result, their relegation odds have drifted to 11/1, reflecting their much-improved outlook.”