Stanley forward Shay McCartan has revealed he was stunned to be named PFA Fans’ Player of the Month for January after a string of good performances in League Two.

The 21-year-old scored three times for Stanley in four games last month, helping to earn him the accolade.

It comes after his first-team appearances were limited during the first six months of the season.

“I’m very surprised to win as I didn’t think I’d get it but I have to say thanks to everyone that voted. It means a lot to me and I really appreciate it,” he told the club’s official website. “I only played three games in January but I scored a few goals and I couldn’t have done it without the rest of the lads who have been brilliant.

“I scored against Hartlepool and Exeter so hopefully we can carry that on for the rest of the season and get ourselves in the automatic places and, if not, the play-offs.”

“I’ve had to wait for my chance but thankfully I’ve been able to take it. I didn’t really play for the first six months which shows the strength of the team really.

“It’s been so easy to slot in alongside them and play with them and click straight away.”