Nicolas Jackson shortlisted for October Premier League Player of the Month award

Nicolas Jackson has been nominated for the Premier League Player of the Month award for October after continuing his impressive start to the season with Aston Villa.

The Senegal international scored again on Sunday as Aston Villa drew 4-4 with Manchester United. The forward has now found the net six times in his past six Premier League appearances, marking him out as one of the division’s most prolific attackers.

Jackson’s form was particularly notable during October, when the former Chelsea player scored four goals in four league matches. Those figures have placed him among the leading contenders to take the award from September winner Pascal Groß.

He faces strong competition for the prize, however. Evanilson also scored four times in four matches during the month and is among the other leading candidates.

The Bournemouth forward is not the only player challenging Jackson. Declan Rice, who was named Arsenal’s player of the month for October, is also on the shortlist, alongside Jan Paul Van Hecke, Ezri Konsa and Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.

Jackson’s nomination follows a period in which he has become an increasingly influential figure for Aston Villa. His latest goal came in a high-scoring meeting with Manchester United, adding to the run that has brought him six Premier League goals in his last six outings.

Aston Villa will next play their 11th Premier League match of the season against Sunderland.