The Sky Bet EFL League One Manager and Player of the Month for February have been announced and the winners are:
Manager: Michael Duff (Barnsley)
Barnsley had an incredible month as they charged their way up the league table in an attempt to boost their playoff position.
They finished February unbeaten in all six games, while also scoring 16 goals in the process. Duff’s tactics which he installed led Barsnely to a strong finish to the month, with a 4-0 win versus Cheltenham and an important 4-1 to fellow contenders Derby County.
The Tykes carried that form into March as their unbeaten record has now extended to eight. This great run of form sees Barsnely up to 4th in the league as they stand 11 points away from the automatic promotion spots, however, do have two games in hand.
Duff said: “It’s humbling to be recognised and win this award for the third time this campaign. The input and support of my backroom staff cannot go unnoticed. Without their tireless hard work, advice and expertise, there would be no accolades or achievements, so thank you to them.
🏆 Congratulations to our February winners! 👏
👔 Michael Duff – @BarnsleyFC
🌟 David McGoldrick – @dcfcofficial#EFL | #SkyBetLeagueOne— Sky Bet League One (@SkyBetLeagueOne) March 10, 2023
Player: David McGoldrick (Derby County)
McGoldrick had quite an impressive month with nine-goal contributions to help his side sit just inside the playoff places.
The 35-year-old rolled back the times with six goals in the month, which included a five-minute hat-trick in their 5-0 thrashing versus Morecambe. Goals weren’t the only part of the story for the striker, as his link-up play and movement helped Derby score 13 goals during the month.
McGoldrick’s goalscoring tally now goes up to 16 on the season which is good for tied-2nd in the League.
McGoldrick said: “It’s good to win the award. I remember I got the League One Player of the Month 13 years ago at Coventry on loan so time flies!”
Writers’ View
The awards for the month are out and the only surprise may be the exclusion of Sheffield Wednesday manager Darren Moore. Moore like Duff went unbeaten for the month, however, the Owls played one less game.
In fairness, Barnsley therefore scored more goals and had a better goal difference for the month, but it is crazy that Moore hasn’t been presented the award this season despite Wednesday flying in the league.
