Nominate Pompey's October player of the month

Regardless of a topsy-turvy month of League Two results, there have been a number of positive contributions from Paul Cook’s players.

And the Fratton faithful again have the opportunity to recognise those encouraging displays by selecting their News’ Pompey player of the month.

In league terms, with two Fratton Park defeats, two victories on their travels and one draw, October has been a mixed bag for Blues followers.

The News, though, has identified five players from that period who deserve to be in the running for our monthly accolade.

In alphabetical order, they are Kyle Bennett, Christian Burgess, Conor Chaplin, Michael Doyle and Gary Roberts.

It will be up to our readers to choose the player which stands out from that shortlist and is worthy of the player of the month title.

Firstly, Bennett has re-established himself in Cook’s starting XI with a series of excellent displays, particularly away from home.

Pompey’s leading assist maker last season was left out of three squads earlier in the campaign having fallen out of favour.

However, he has now started the Blues’ last five matches and delivered outstanding performances at Leyton Orient and Plymouth.

Bennett also registered his first goal of the season in the 2-2 draw at the Pilgrims.

His team-mate Burgess was the matchwinner at Orient and turned goal provider in last weekend’s victory at Cambridge United.

During that Abbey Stadium triumph, he demonstrated his defensive excellence with a commanding performance in the 1-0 win.

Earlier in the month, the former Peterborough man marked his 25th birthday by heading home the only goal of the game against Orient.

Chaplin has been handed a run in Pompey’s side and revelled in the opportunity.

The teenager has scored in his last two matches, taking his recent tally to five in his last nine games.

There was also an assist for Bennett in the 2-2 draw at Plymouth, a leveller created by a run and cross from the left. In addition, Chaplin earned a new contract in October, taking him to the summer of 2019.

Midfielder Doyle has maintained a tigerish grip in the centre of the pitch, demonstrating faultless commitment.

Pompey’s skipper is a crucial cog in the side, helping maintain a dominance on the ball or preserve a lead when down to 10-men.

Finally, Gary Roberts continues to be a talismanic figure for the Blues and their top goalscorer and assist maker.

He created Chaplin’s leveller against Notts County and leads from the front with tireless endeavour.

You can cast your vote online at portsmouth.co.uk

Closing date is Monday, November 7.