Walsall's on-loan Blackpool midfielder Ryan Finnigan has been named the Sky Bet League Two Player of the Month for November.Used sporadically earlier in the season, Finnigan has made himself indispensable in the Walsall midfield with his energy, athleticism, and ability to bring others into play. He also contributed three goals, including two close-range headers.
Walsall manager Mat Sadler said: “He's had a great month, Ryan. He looks really athletic, he looks like he's really enjoying his football, and he looks in a good place, so I’m really pleased with everything he’s doing.
"It’s a great accolade/achievement for him personally, but I’m sure he’ll talk about the team because he's a really good team player and most importantly he's a top, top person and someone I've got such a good amount of time for, and I love working with him – I’m chuffed for him.
Finnigan, who has scored four goals across twenty-four first-team appearances, said: “It’s been a great month on reflection.
"For me personally and the team, we've had some great wins, great performances and it's been really nice to contribute in the way of goals and assists, something which when I first joined the club I said I wanted to do.
"The overwhelming feeling at the minute for me, as cliché as it is, is I’m just grateful with the environment I'm in, the team, everyone associated with the club – they’ve just allowed me to be myself, and I’m enjoying my football so it' been nice.
"I’m pleased, but the task now is to continue because by doing that it helps the team out obviously and it really kind of separates yourself from other people – hopefully I can keep building and do that."
Sky Sports’ EFL pundit Don Goodman added: "Ryan Finnigan has fast become one of the first names on the team sheet at Walsall.
"He enjoyed a great month and has even added goals to the energy and athleticism he already brings to midfield.
"Ryan scored three goals last month, an impressive return for a central midfielder."
Sky Bet EFL trader Ivor Davies said: "Walsall midfielder Ryan Finnigan played a pivotal role in his side’s excellent November, helping sustain their climb up the table and begin to make amends for last season’s title race collapse."
The judging panel for the Sky Bet Player of the Month comprises Sky Sports’ EFL expert Don Goodman; EFL Chief Executive Trevor Birch and Sky Bet EFL trader Ivor Davies.