Wednesday 8 October 2014 14:44, UK
Wycombe and Southend will both be hoping for a double awards boost when the Sky Bet League Two gongs for September are handed out.
Chairboys manager Gareth Ainsworth and striker Paul Hayes are in contention for prizes, along with Shrimpers boss Phil Brown and his young midfielder Jack Payne.
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.
The Sky Bet League Two Manager of the Month nominees for September are...
Gareth Ainsworth (Wycombe Wanderers)
Ainsworth has banished memories of last season’s struggles in style, guiding his side through an unbeaten month to garner 11 points and move up to second in Sky Bet League 2. Their defensive solidity was demonstrated by conceding just two goals.
Phil Brown (Southend United)
After his Shrimpers side's indifferent start, Brown guided them calmly to a draw and then four successive wins in a September to remember at Roots Hall. His astute signings of young players has re-invigorated the team.
Dave Flitcroft (Bury)
Flitcroft embraced expectations around Gigg Lane and the tag of promotion favourites. He told his Shakers players to express themselves which they did in a convincing 3-1 home win against high-flying Burton Albion to collect 10 points from five games.
Paul Tisdale (Exeter City)
Tisdale overcame a difficult summer and August to lead Exeter into better form with his usual panache. He transmitted his unwavering belief to his players to secure three straight 2-1 wins against Cambridge United, Tranmere Rovers and leaders Bury.
The Sky Bet League Two Player of the Month nominees for September are...
Paul Hayes (Wycombe Wanderers)
September was a milestone month for the striker, who scored three of the Chairboys' five goals. The 31-year-old led the line superbly while playing with different partners. All of his goals were crucial, including the winner against Cambridge United, his 100th league goal.
Jack Payne (Southend United)
The teenage midfielder was the catalyst for Southend’s great month. Payne, 19, broke into the side against Oxford United and has not looked back, linking play, and driving forward. The 3-2 win at York City showcased his talents with two assists and a sweeping finish.
Marc Richards (Northampton Town)
Six goals in four appearances from Richards kept Northampton in the play-off positions. The 32-year-old striker allied a strong work-rate to his full array of finishing. Clinical on the ground and powerful in the air, he scored twice against both Dagenham & Redbridge and Hartlepool United.
Luke Wilkinson (Luton Town)
The Hatters did not concede a goal with Wilkinson in the side in September. Has been immense since recovering from a back injury. Comfortable in possession and a strong physical presence in both areas, as seen by his headed goal against Oxford United.
The winners will be announced on Friday morning.
