Sheffield United are celebrating a double reward for a great October with both the npower League 1 Manager and Player of the Month awards heading to Bramall Lane.

With 16 points from a possible 18, Danny Wilson guided Sheffield United to second place in npower League 1 at the end of October. With only goal difference separating the Blades and league leaders Tranmere Rovers at the end of the month, the fans at Bramall Lane will be forgiven for beginning to anticipate a serious promotion challenge this season.

Wilson's success this month has been built on the base of a very tight defence, which has been marshalled excellently by the prodigal George Long. In the month before his 19th birthday, the teenager has displayed both shot-stopping ability and maturity beyond his years in conceding just a single goal in five league appearances.

Speaking about Danny Wilson's win, panel member Alan Curbishley commented: "Sheffield United's fantastic start to the season continues as they remain unbeaten in npower League 1. October was a particularly productive month for the Blades, taking 16 points and pushing into the automatic promotion places."

npower sponsorship manager Emma Collins said: "It's often said that goalkeepers mature a lot later than their outfield counter-parts, so Sheffield United fans will be very optimistic about the progress of George Long.

"While Sheffield United's defensive record is obviously a team effort, George has displayed great maturity and ability this month and richly deserves the award."