The January nominations for the Sky Bet Championship Player of the Month Award are:
The January nominations for the Sky Bet Championship Player of the Month Award are:
Abel Hernandez (Hull City) - striker
Now fully adjusted to the physicality of the Championship, the Uruguayan was the focal point of a dominant Hull attack as they went top. His six goals in four games included a thrilling hat-trick in the 6-0 romp against Charlton Athletic.
Gary Hooper (Sheffield Wednesday) – striker
Signed on a permanent deal in January, he is proving to be the prolific goalscorer that Wednesday have lacked. Now match sharp to add to his knack of being in the right place, he scored five of his team’s seven goals in the month.
Maikel Kieftenbeld (Birmingham City) – midfielder
Fully adjusted to life in the Championship following his summer move, the Dutchman offers a cultured presence in the Birmingham midfield. Has an eye for a goal, too, with three in the month, including superb volleys against Derby County and Ipswich Town.
Ben Mee (Burnley) – central defender
A full-back by trade, the 26-year-old has moved seamlessly into central defence with Burnley conceding just two goals in four January games. Strong in the air and brave in the tackle, he was outstanding in the 4-1 win over Derby County.
ALL WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON FRIDAY FEBRUARY 5 2016
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 Football Trading Manager Paul Lowery.