Rowett And Keogh Nominated For October Awards

Gary Rowett and Richard Keogh have been nominated for the Sky Bet Championship Manager and Player of the Month awards respectively for October, following a perfect run of results.

The Rams claimed four wins from four over the course of the month, defeating Nottingham Forest (2-0), Sheffield Wednesday (2-0), Norwich City (2-1) and Leeds United (2-1) to leap into the second tier’s play-off positions.

On why Rowett was nominated, Sky Bet’s release stated: “October was the month in which Derby announced themselves as promotion contenders.

“Four wins from four earned Rowett’s men a maximum 12 points, but it was the manner of the victories he inspired at Norwich and Leeds which impressed most.”

The 43-year-old is up against Queens Park Rangers’ Ian Holloway, Bolton Wanderers’ Phil Parkinson and Brentford’s Dean Smith to win the overall award.

Speaking about why Keogh, the 30-year-old Rams skipper, was put forward for the October award, Sky Bet added: “Outstanding in the East Midlands derby win over Nottingham Forest and cool-headed leader of a defence which conceded just two goals in four games.

“The Derby captain is also bringing the ball into midfield more this season.”

Keogh is up against Bolton Wanderers’ Sammy Ameobi, Sunderland’s Lewis Grabban and Wolves’ Leo Bonatini.

The winners for both awards will be announced at 6am on Friday 10th November.