Steve Cooper wins Manager of the Month award

Swansea City head coach Steve Cooper has won the Sky Bet EFL Championship Manager of the Month award for August.

The 39-year-old was recognised after the Swans won five and drew one of their opening six fixtures in the second tier.

Charlton’s Lee Bowyer, Bristol City’s Lee Johnson and Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa were also nominated for the award.

“This award is not about an individual - it is a reflection of the hard work and effort put in not only by the players but the coaching staff and everyone connected to the club,” said Cooper.

“At our club, everyone is part of the team and everything they do contributes to what happens on the pitch.

“From the small amount of time I’ve been here, it is clear to me that every single person working for this football club is so driven and passionate to help Swansea City progress.

“Results-wise it has been a good start for us, and I’m delighted for everyone, none more so than the supporters because they have been incredible.

“That’s been one of the biggest positives for me. I feel their pride in watching our team play, and that is one of my main objectives.

“We are only six games in so we are not getting carried away. The challenge for everyone now is to remain focused and continue working hard to ensure our good start is more than that.”

Defender Mike van der Hoorn was among the nominees for the August Player of the Month prize, which was won by Preston’s Daniel Johnson.