As expected Town boss Joe Royle has won the poisoned chalice that is the Manager of the Month award. During October his Town side recorded five wins and one draw.

Royle told the club site that the award isn't just appreciation of his role in the run of good form: "I am delighted we have won the award for all the hard work everyone has put in during the month.

"The first win at the start of October was important to us against Rotherham at home and our confidence grew from that point.

"It is virtually the same group of players that were at the wrong end of the table six weeks ago and now we are on the threshold of the play-offs.

"There are no Portsmouths in the division this season and no one team is looking like going clear at the top. However, I would be delighted if in a couple months it turned out to be us.

"A non-league side in Portsmouth recently went on a winning run after their players decided to wear items of clothing from their partners but I can assure Town fans that I have not been wearing Mrs Royle's underwear during our unbeaten streak."

Royle last won a Manager of the Month award in March of this year. The cursed nature of the honour was again evident as the Blues lost their next game at home to Nottingham Forest.

The award is judged by representatives from the League Managers' Association, the Football League and Nationwide.

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