Jay Rod is Young Player of the Month

His goals against Sheffield United and Portsmouth during the month were considered as well as that call up and the award was certainly a surprise to the player.

"It's great news that I've won the award and I am over the moon," said Jay. "I never expected this and it's a huge shock. I still think I have a lot to learn in improving my game, but this will give me great confidence to carry on doing well for Burnley Football Club.

"The season keeps on bringing great surprises and coming on the back of the England Under 21 debut it caps a fantastic couple of weeks. It's an award that ranks highly in my career so far and it's a massive thing for me."

Jay continued: "Obviously I have a lot of people to thank for helping me get where I am today. Everyone in the youth set up at Burnley - and especially Terry Pashley - has helped to improve my game and it's great for young players to have an education here.

"I also have to thank the Burnley managers I have worked under. Owen Coyle and Brian Laws were brilliant for me and Eddie Howe has also given me great confidence to continue to express myself."

Commenting on the Football League's web site, Chief Operating Officer Andy Williamson added: "It has been a great month on the pitch for Jay who continues to cement his place in Eddie Howe's side through a number of very strong performances.

"HIs development is a superb advert for the quality of young players produced throughout the Football League."

The award is open to players under the age of 21 or those who reach the age of 21 during the season. That means the award is something of a shock with Jay having celebrated his 21^st birthday before the start of the season.