Nathan Smith on shortlist for August player of the month
Port Vale defender Nathan Smith is on the shortlist for the August League One player of the month award.
Nominees
Steve Morison (Millwall) – striker
Nicknamed ‘Grandad’ by his teammates, the silver-haired striker showed no signs of slowing down in August, using his strength and leading by hard-working example. In addition to four goals in five games, he also had two assists.
Josh Morris (Scunthorpe United) – winger
Re-joining former manager Graham Alexander has given the 24-year-old a new lease of life. He used his position on the left as a base to move forward. In addition to two assists, his five goals included a sumptuous free-kick against Port Vale.
Nathan Smith (Port Vale) – central defender
The 20-year-old graduate of the Port Vale youth system has shown determination and grit beyond his years in a defence which conceded just two goals in five games. He also found time to head a late winner over Rochdale.
Jay Spearing (Bolton Wanderers) – midfielder
Captaincy suits him. The heartbeat of a Wanderers side that has replaced the despair of relegation with optimism for the new season. Displayed superb technique for the winner over Sheffield United and a pinpoint free-kick at Bristol Rovers.
The winner will be announced on the 9th September and the judging panel comprises Sky Sports’ EFL expert Don Goodman; EFL Communications Director Mark Rowan, League Managers’ Association Director Olaf Dixon and Sky BetFootball Trading Manager Paul Lowery.