Reading manager Leam Richardson has been named the Sky Bet League One Manager of the Month for September.

After overseeing a summer of recruitment to add pace and depth to his attacking options, Richardson has placed the emphasis on front foot football with greater width. That equated to 10 points and 13 goals from five September games.

Richardson said: “It’s always very pleasing to be acknowledged for the work we’ve done, but the credit goes to all the staff, not just the football staff, but everyone connected to the club. It’s always a collective effort.

“Then, of course, the players have to put into practice what we demand of them each day, in every training session and every game.

“They’re working hard and moving in a really positive direction, but there’s still a lot of improvement left in this group.”

Danny Wilson chairs the Sky Bet Championship Manager of the Month judging panel.

He said: “A super September for Leam and his team. 10 points and just a point outside the top 6. Fans will feel very pleased with the recruitment made in the summer and the type of football being played.”

Sky Sports’ EFL pundit Don Goodman said: “Reading added some new signings in summer to help take the next step towards promotion and it looks to be making a difference.

“It’s not easy bedding it new players quickly but Leam Richardson deserves a lot of credit, he’s got his team playing a great brand of football and they look a real threat going forward.”

Sky Bet EFL trader Ivor Davies said: “Leam Richardson’s Reading enjoyed an excellent September, collecting 10 points from five matches while finding the net 13 times.

“The underlying numbers so far had suggested that the Royals were performing better than their results showed, with their expected goals figures particularly impressive and they are now starting to get their rewards.

“The market has certainly taken notice. Reading were a double-figure 10/1 chance for promotion at the start of September but after an impressive month under Richardson they are now as short as 100/30.”

Sky Bet League One: Manager and Player of the Month Winners

Sky Bet League One: Manager and Player of the Month Winners