Capital One Cup final: Bradford's Carl McHugh wants to beat Swansea

Carl McHugh: Has impressed manager Phil Parkinson with his performances since joining Bradford

Bradford City defender Carl McHugh is hoping for Capital One Cup final glory to continue a dream 2013.

Ahead of Sunday's fairytale meeting with Swansea City at Wembley, the 20-year-old has been awarded the npower Football League Young Player of the Month award for January.

McHugh earned the accolade not least for impressive performances in fourth tier Bradford's victory over Premier League Aston Villa in last month's League Cup semi-finals.

The Reading Academy graduate scored in the first leg against Villa to underline his fine form and, having already helped eliminate Wigan Athletic and Arsenal, he is hoping for more.

On winning the Player of the Month award, McHugh, who joined Bradford at the beginning of the season, said: "January was an incredible month for me.

"The cup run has been crazy with some of the teams we knocked out. But now we are so close and want to go on and win the thing.

"My main thing with all big games is to make sure I enjoy them. That is what I told myself before the Arsenal game. But my goal against Villa is the standout moment for me."

Bradford boss Phil Parkinson added: "When we signed Carl, we saw him as a youngster who would develop with the club as we progressed.

"But he has continued to perform far above our expectations. He is an immense character, he is a leader, he is tough and he loves defending.

"Although he is still very young, especially for a centre-back, he plays like an old head on young shoulders. He is a pleasure to work with and is going to get better and better."

For more information on the award and each month's winner visit www.football-league.co.uk