Joe thrilled by nomination

Joe Lewis is feeling honoured to be nominated for September’s Premier League 2 player of the month award – not that he knew too much about it.

The Neath-born defender was an ever-present for the development side last month – playing in all four league games as well as the 1-0 victory over AFC Wimbledon in the Checkatrade Trophy – and his consistent performances at the heart of defence have not gone unnoticed.

The 19-year-old was named on the list of nominees for the accolade alongside Manchester City’s Rabbi Matondo, Tottenham Hotspur’s Oliver Skipp, and Callum Roberts and Louie Sibley of Newcastle United and Derby County respectively.

The winner of the award will be announced on Friday and Lewis admits his nomination was a nice surprise.

“I didn’t know anything about it until I saw the club's post on Twitter,” he smiled.

“It was a lovely surprise and a great way to sum up what’s been a really good start to the season for me.

“Just getting nominated is a great feeling. It gives you a lot of momentum and confidence to push on.

“Hopefully, I can do that and help the team do the same.”

Lewis will be back in action for the under-23s on October 22, when they face West Ham United in Premier League 2.