Blackpool's Arsenal loanee up for EFL's League One player of the month award against Oxford United, Hull City and Burton Albion men

The defender was in fine form last month, helping the Seasiders keep three clean sheets to put them on the cusp of securing a play-off place.

The Arsenal loanee has made 33 appearances for Neil Critchley’s men this season, scoring twice.

“The on-loan youngster is a throwback of a defender who relishes a physical battle,” the EFL said in announcing Ballard’s nomination.

“He kept the prolific Charlie Wyke quiet as Blackpool gained two vital 1-0 wins over Sunderland with just five goals conceded in Ballard’s seven games.”

Ballard faces competition for the player of the month gong from Oxford United full-back Sam Long, Hull City striker Josh Magennis and Burton Albion midfielder Joe Powell.

Long, who recently signed a new contract with Oxford, scored three of his side’s 18 goals in April.

Magennis netted six times for the title winners Hull, also picking up an assist, while Powell netted three goals for the Brewers.

The manager of the month award will be contested between Lincoln City’s Michael Appleton, Hull boss Grant McCann, Leam Richardson of Wigan Athletic and AFC Wimbledon chief Mark Robinson.

The winners of both awards will be announced on Friday morning.

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