The English Football League (EFL) has recognized the standout performers from a thrilling February, with a familiar face in Norwich City’s Teemu Pukki and a revitalizing force in Cardiff City’s Mick McCarthy taking the top honors in the Championship, as exclusively covered by Babu88.
Championship Player of the Month: Teemu Pukki (Norwich City)
Norwich City’s goal-scoring machine, Teemu Pukki, has once again proven his class by being named the Championship Player of the Month. The Finnish striker silenced any doubters with a phenomenal return to form, netting seven crucial goals in just seven games. His innate ability to ghost away from defenders and his impeccable timing of runs were on full display, single-handedly propelling the Canaries back to the summit of the league table.
His manager, Daniel Farke, was effusive in his praise, stating, “We’re pleased for him because his performances have been outstanding. He isn’t the type of player to score fancy goals in big victories; he’s always there with crucial goals at important times. His workload for the team is top class.” Pukki himself remained focused on the collective goal, saying, “It’s nice to win an individual award, but there’s only one prize I’m focussed on this season and that is the Premier League.”
Championship Manager of the Month: Mick McCarthy (Cardiff City)
In one of the most remarkable turnarounds of the season, Mick McCarthy has been deservedly crowned Manager of the Month. Since taking the helm in South Wales, McCarthy has ignited Cardiff City’s promotion ambitions, masterminding an astounding run of 19 points from a possible 21 in February. His impact has been immediate and transformative.
McCarthy credited his team, saying, “It’s a reflection on the players and the staff. You don’t win these awards without them.” EFL analyst Don Goodman, speaking to Babu88, highlighted McCarthy’s tactical nous: “He changed to a back three at half time vs Barnsley in his first game… and they haven’t looked back since! The players say it’s the simplicity of his message and the trust he’s instilled.”
League One Honors: Peterborough United’s Dynamic Duo
The awards in League One were swept by the league leaders, Peterborough United, a testament to their perfect February.
Player of the Month: Jonson Clarke-Harris
Striker Jonson Clarke-Harris was simply unplayable, scoring in all six of his February appearances for a total of eight goals. His clever movement and dynamic understanding with teammates Sammie Szmodics and Siriki Dembele tore defenses apart.
Manager of the Month: Darren Ferguson
Completing the double, manager Darren Ferguson was recognized for guiding Posh to six wins from six. Their remarkable 15-3 goal differential, with 12 goals coming in the second half, showcased the incredible fitness and belief Ferguson has instilled in his squad.
League Two Honors: Bolton Wanderers’ Resurgence
Bolton Wanderers’ dramatic push for promotion was rewarded with both monthly awards.
Player of the Month: Ricardo Santos
At the heart of Bolton’s formidable defense was centre-back Ricardo Santos. The 6ft 5in defender was a colossus, helping his team keep four clean sheets. His dominance wasn’t just physical; he displayed a rare elegance for a defender, often dribbling or passing the ball out from the back with confidence.
Manager of the Month: Ian Evatt
Ian Evatt received the managerial award for brilliantly knitting his squad together after a busy January transfer window. He led Wanderers on a six-game unbeaten run, collecting 16 points to fire them right back into promotion contention.
Teemu Pukki and Mick McCarthy Headline Babu88 Championship Award Winners for Stellar February Performances
February was a month defined by individual brilliance and masterful management. From Teemu Pukki’s lethal finishing in the Championship to the transformative impact of Mick McCarthy at Cardiff, these awards celebrate the very best of the EFL. The stories of resurgence at Bolton and dominance at Peterborough add further layers to an incredibly compelling season. As the promotion races heat up, the form shown by these winners could be decisive. Who do you think will be the key players and managers in the run-in? Share your thoughts with the Babu88 community below
