Dean Smith and Febian Brandy up for awards

Walsall manager Dean Smith and striker Febian Brandy were today nominated for February's League One awards.

Saddlers boss Smith is in the running to defend the manager of the month crown he won in January, while Brandy is in line for the player title.

Walsall were unbeaten last month – winning three and drawing two – to maintain their play-off charge.

They beat Doncaster, Oldham and Carlisle and drew with Notts County and Brentford and last night closed the gap to the top six to four points with a 2-0 win over Tranmere.

Smith is up against Yeovil's Gary Johnson and Hartlepool's John Hughes with the Saddlers facing both of those teams later this month.

Brandy has scored six times since a free transfer last summer and netted the winner in the 2-1 win at leaders Doncaster.

He was given a standing ovation by Carlisle fans for his part in Walsall's 3-0 win at Brunton Park two weeks ago.

The ex-Manchester United starlet has also held preliminary talks about extending his contract at the Saddlers, which expires in the summer.

He is nominated along with Yeovil's Paddy Madden and Hartlepool's Peter Hartley with the winners announced on Friday.