Player of the month nominations

Reading started the season impressively despite only winning one league game. There were some good performances from the team and individuals.

Here are my nominee’s for the August player of the month.

Paul McShane- The new Reading captain and centre back has had a fantastic start to his Reading career. He’s been solid, calm on the ball and has played a huge part in Reading’s three clean sheets in all competitions in August. Clarke signed Paul on a free from after he was released from Hull this summer and he looks a real coup after his first month at the club.

Anton Ferdinand- McShane’s centre back partner, Ferdinand, has surprised us all, playing a part in all but one of our opening seven games in all competitions. He was out for all of last season with multiple injuries and has been like a new signing. Anton’s been so impressive he’s nudged the class Michael Hector out of the side. He and Paul’s partnership will be key to Reading’s success throughout the season.

Oliver Norwood- Norwood needed a top start to the season due to all of the competition he has in the middle of the park and he’s certainly got off to one. Oli has been our main man in centre midfield, protecting the back four and spraying his trademark passes. Norwood will need to continue this form if he wants to keep his place with Fernandez, Quinn and Tshibola knocking on the door.

Nick Blackman- He’s another surprising candidate. Blackman has had a great start to the season, scoring four goals. Nick has always said he’s a Striker and Clarke has given him the chance this season. He’ll need to continue scoring goals now Vydra has joined the club.