Newcastle United duo nominated for Championship awards

Newcastle United's Dwight Gayle (left) celebrates with Aleksandar Mitrovic after scoring his side's fourth goal of the game and completing his hat-trick during the Sky Bet Championship match at St James' Park, Newcastle. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo.

It comes after Newcastle United secured a perfect five wins from five to take them to the top of the Championship table in October.

Benitez’s nomination read: “As impressive as the variety of their attacking play was the delight his players took in conceding just two goals.”

The Newcastle boss is up against Preston North End boss Simon Grayson, Brighton & Hove Albion’s Chris Hughton and Garry Monk from Leeds United.

Gayle, meanwhile, scored four goals in four games.

His nomination read: “Four goals from four October games showcased his speed, direct running and finishing prowess as he bagged two apiece against Brentford and Barnsley.”

Newcastle’s number nine is up against Ali Al-Habsi (Reading), Sone Aluko (Fulham) and Lewis Dunk (Brighton & Hove Albion).

The winner will be announced on Friday.