Colchester United manager Joe Dunne has been nominated for the Sky Bet League One Manager of the Month award for January.

Dunne helped steer his U's side to a position in the top half of the table last month, after leading them to two high-scoring wins against Carlisle United and Gillingham and an impressive away draw at MK Dons.

His efforts have been rewarded in the shape of the Football League's monthly award, where he will compete against Brentford manager Mark Warburton, Russell Slade of Leyton Orient and Walsall boss Dean Smith for the prize.

It is the second time that Dunne has been nominated for the League One award.

He was also shortlisted in November 2012, when he was pipped to the award by Barnsley's Danny Wilson.

For reaction from U's chairman Robbie Cowling to Dunne's nomination for the manager of the month award, see Wednesday's Daily Gazette.