'More to come' from Herbie Kane as key Barnsley FC midfielder wins EFL League One award for December

Kane, also shortlisted for the PFA League One player of the month award, beat off competition from Huddersfield Town striker Jordan Rhodes, on loan at Blackpool, Port Vale attacking midfielder Ethan Chislett and Portsmouth captain Marlon Pack for the EFL gong.

The former Liverpool player scored three goals in December, including the winner against Stevenage alongside goals in the games at Peterborough and Reading, while also contributing three assists.

Collins, shortlisted himself for the League One manager of the month accolade, said: "I’m absolutely delighted for Herbie to pick up this award.

"It is a sign of how well the team has done and clearly Herbie is an integral part of that.

"Herbie would admit he has been surrounded by really good team-mates, but I am pleased for him as he has been very reliable for us this year and effective. I think there’s more to come.

"You think every player in the team can have some sort of goal contribution when you are playing in a team who want to attack.

"Herbie is getting himself into good positions and also taking penalties, but equally he’s creating for us.

"Herbie is an all-round good player and very keen to always add to his game and improve. It’s good he has got the rewards from that.

Collins says that he expects key loan duo Liam Roberts and John McAtee to remain at the club this month.The pair joined the Reds from Middlesbrough and Luton respectively last summer, with both parent clubs having potential recall clauses that they could invoke in the winter window.

The Reds remain interested in USA international defender Donovan Pines, but face competition to sign him.

Pines is back in England after briefly jetting back to the States.

The 25-year-old spent time at the club last week - attending the Reds’ home game with Wigan on New Year's Day - before returning to the US.