Striker amongst nominees for Player of the Month
December was quite a month for Tom Nichols. A first start for the Grecians in over 18 months was capped with two goals in a 3-2 away win at Accrington, as the striker doubled his tally of Football League goals in an afternoon. And his all-round forward play earned him a place in the starting line-up for the forthcoming games – including against Torquay, where he opened the scoring in the 3-1 win with a howitzer of an effort from 25 yards.And, to cap off a glowing month in what is becoming a revelatory season for the 20-year-old, we’re delighted to announce that Nichols has been shortlisted for Sky Bet League 2 Player of the Month for December.
Tom becomes the second Grecian to be amongst the nominees for the monthly award this season – Arron Davies was on the shortlist for October after having a telling impact for City from midfield.
As ever, the competition is fierce for the award. Deon Burton, Scunthorpe’s 37-year-old striker, has been rolling back the years and netted four times last month including a brace against Morecambe, and his goals have helped Russ Wilcox’s side climb into the automatic promotion places.
And AFC Wimbledon’s Ross Worner has been nominated for keeping the ball out of the net, rather than putting it in. The Dons didn’t have the best of months but the stopper – who had endured a shaky start to life at Kingsmeadow – pulled out heroics that helped to earn two draws, including a fine clean-sheet against Mansfield.
Newport-born Michael Flynn completes the quartet, following an impressive month in a midfield role for his hometown side. The 33-year-old playmaker, who was promoted with the Exiles last year, netted twice in December – including a volley of sublime technique for the winner at Wycombe.
The winner will be announced on Friday 10th January 2014. 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 Head of Football Paul Wiggins.
Supporters are reminded that they can see Tom Nichols and the under-21 side in action in the Under-21 Premier League Cup on Tuesday, as Blackburn are visitors at St James Park. Kick-off is at 7pm – click here for admission details.
A reminder of Nichols’ opener against Torquay United