Nathan Smith on shortlist for August player of the month

5/5 - (4 votes)

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.