Rotherham United's Semi Ajayi wins Sky Bet Player of the Month award

PRIZE guy Semi Ajayi dedicated his award to his Rotherham United teammates after being named Sky Bet Championship Player of the Month for March.
Semi Ajayi with his March awardSemi Ajayi with his March award
Semi Ajayi with his March award

The centre-half turned holding midfielder scored five times in five games as the Millers stepped up their bid for second-tier survival.

But the modest 25-year-old was quick to praise the contribution of the players around him.

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“It is a massive honour and it is something I am really pleased to receive," he said. "I have to say, though, that the award is a team effort. I wouldn't be in a position to collect it without my teammates. 

“During the month we performed well in a number of games, picking up some vital points. It was a good, all-round team effort. I am also hugely grateful to the staff, who have been brilliant."

 Ajayi scored with three headers and two shots to see off the challenge of the other nominees, Leeds United's Pablo Hernandez, Sheffield United's Jack O'Connell and Emiliano Buendia of Norwich City.

"It was a good month and to be given the award ahead of some very stiff opposition is even more pleasing," he said.

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“The season is coming to a close now and we are fighting hard to keep this club in The Championship.

"This award will also give me confidence going into the remaining games.”

Sky Sports pundit Don Goodman said: “When the situation is as desperate as it is for Rotherham at the moment, a point can make all the difference.

“It’s no exaggeration to say that if Rotherham manage to stay in the division, it will be down – in no small part – to Ajayi’s goals from midfield.”

Millers old boy Jonson Clarke-Harris, now at Bristol Rovers, won the League One award.