MICHAEL Appleton is in the running for February’s manager of the month award in Sky Bet League One.

Oxford United collected 12 points from their five games to move into contention for the play-off race, seeing their boss shortlisted along with Lee Clark (Bury), John Sheridan (Oldham) and Neil Harris (Millwall).

It is the third time Appleton has been in the running for a monthly award during his three seasons with the U’s, following nominations in October and November 2015.

If Appleton claims the award, it will be the first time a United boss has done so since Chris Wilder in September 2009.

The winner is announced on Friday.