Cambridge United youngster Dan Barton is the right choice for Player of the Month award, according to head coach Garry Monk

Cambridge United head coach Garry Monk has backed the fans’ decision to vote Dan Barton as the club’s Player of the Month for August.

Prior to United’s Sky Bet League One opener at Stockport County, Barton himself would not have expected to see his name in the running for the prize alongside team-mates Danny Andrew and Shayne Lavery.

The 19-year-old had not even made his senior debut at that point, but after coming off the bench at Edgeley Park for his first taste of the Football League, Barton has gone on to feature in all six matches this term.

And he capped a month to remember on a personal note by scoring his first goal in the 3-3 draw at Bromley.

Monk said: “We’re delighted with Barts. At a young age and when it’s your first real taste of senior football, it’s about letting them have that freedom. There’s no pressure on him from us. We want him to enjoy his football and play fearlessly like he’s been doing and contribute how he is.

“It’s great when young lads come away with you (in pre-season) and you’re hoping one or two can show something. The type of lad he is – quiet, gets on with his job, he’s tough and he’s obviously got a lot of potential.

“He deserves that award for sure and we’re happy for him, but the hard work continues. There’s loads of things where he can improve and get better – and I’m sure he will because of the type of lad he is.

“All of us here are delighted that he’s shown what he’s shown through pre-season and taken it into the season.

“He’ll have periods where it will be difficult, but just let the lad play and enjoy this season. As you get older and more seasons come, a lot of things come into your mind where you’re not as free as you were when you first came into it. This season is about him enjoying it and showing what he's capable of.”

Barton limped off in the latter stages at Bromley with what appeared to be an ankle knock, but he has trained fully over the international break and is in line to be involved at Mansfield Town tomorrow lunchtime.