Steve Cooper has dedicated his August EFL Championship manager of the month award to the Swansea City fans who have cheered his team to the top of the table.
Cooper has won the first award of the campaign in his first competitive month as a club manager.
During that time the former England U17 head coach has guided the unbeaten Swans to five victories and one draw in their opening six league fixtures.
“Results-wise it has been a good start for us, and I’m delighted for everyone, none more so than the supporters because they have been incredible,” said the 39-year-old.
“That’s been one of the biggest positives for me. I feel their pride in watching our team play, and that is one of my main objectives.
“We are only six games in so we are not getting carried away. The challenge for everyone now is to remain focused and continue working hard to ensure our good start is more than that.
“This award is not about an individual – it is a reflection of the hard work and effort put in not only by the players but the coaching staff and everyone connected to the club.
“At our club, everyone is part of the team and everything they do contributes to what happens on the pitch.
“From the small amount of time I’ve been here, it is clear to me that every single person working for this football club is so driven and passionate to help Swansea City progress.”
Charlton’s Lee Bowyer, Bristol City’s Lee Johnson and Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa were also nominated for the award.
Swans defender Mike van der Hoorn was among the nominees for the August Player of the Month prize, which was won by Preston’s Daniel Johnson.
Cooper will assess the fitness of Joe Rodon before his team face Nottingham Forest at the Liberty Stadium on Saturday.
The central defender, who made his Wales debut in last week’s Euro 2020 qualifier against Azerbaijan, took a knock on international duty in his second game – the 1-0 friendly win over Belarus on Monday.
The 21-year-old did manage the full 90 minutes at the Cardiff City Stadium, but may not be risked against Forest.
Bersant Celina is definitely available after playing in Kosovo’s 5-3 Euro 2020 qualifying defeat to England on Tuesday.
Wayne Routledge hopes to be rewarded for his last-gasp winner at Leeds before the international break with a starting spot.
Forest have been dealt a double injury blow as they seek to extend a seven-game unbeaten run.
Carl Jenkinson has damaged an ankle and the former Arsenal defender will be out “for a few weeks” according to Forest boss Sabri Lamouchi.
Matty Cash might have to fill in at right-back with Tendayi Darikwa recovering from a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.
Forest will also be without striker Rafa Mir, who faces two weeks on the sidelines with a leg injury.
