Saddlers' boss amongst the nominations...
SADDLERS' boss, Dean Smith, has been nominated for the Sky Bet League One Manager of the Month for November 2014.Here are the managers that he is up against.
Mark Cooper (Swindon Town)
Masterminded a 12-point haul from five games as Swindon became the first side to beat leaders Bristol City. They also defeated promotion rivals Preston North End and Peterborough United – and did so by adhering to Cooper’s belief in the passing game.
Mark Robins (Scunthorpe United)
His impact has been felt fully at the club, albeit without his players playing at home during November. Two wins and a draw from three awkward away fixtures restored confidence and belief among Robins’ squad.
Karl Robinson (MK Dons)
A highly successful, if curious, month for Robinson’s side with 10 points from four games, all played at stadium:mk. Most impressive were the 11 goals scored with attacking verve, particularly in the 6-0 win over Colchester United.
Dean Smith (Walsall)
Patience during an injury-ridden first three months, and a determination to stick to his principles, drew just reward in November as Smith’s team picked up eight points in four unbeaten games, conceding just one goal in the process.
ALL WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON FRIDAY DECEMBER 5 2014
The judging panel comprises former Norwich City and Newcastle United manager Chris Hughton, Sky Sports’ Football League expert and former Saddler, Don Goodman; Football League Chief Operating Officer Andy Williamson; League Managers’ Association Director Olaf Dixon and Sky Bet Football Trading Manager Paul Lowery.