Walsall boss Dean Smith awarded Manager of the Month

Walsall manager Dean Smith Credit: ITV News Central

The Sky Bet League One manager of the month award for August has been won by Walsall boss Dean Smith.

The Saddlers manager has led his side to four wins and a draw in the league so far this season and his side are top of the table.

Smith was one of four managers nominated; the others were Burton Albion's Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Sheffield United's Nigel Adkins and Gillingham boss Justin Edinburgh.

Walsall's impressive start to the season, which sees them on top of League One for the first time in a decade, also extends to their recent performance in the Capital One Cup. They beat Nottingham Forest in the first round to set up a home tie with former Premier League and European Champions Chelsea.

Walsall manager Dean Smith told ITV News Central his side's recent form is down to the players having learnt valuable lessons in recent years.

Walsall play Bury at home on Saturday, unlike the hosts, the visitors have yet to win in the league this season.