WAYNE Thomas has been named as the Vanarama Conference North player-of-the-month for October.

The veteran centre-half has been an imposing figure for the Blue and Whites this season and helped them remain unbeaten throughout the month in all competitions.

His chief achievement was filling in for Jose Veiga as an emergency keeper after just two minutes against Harrogate Town.

City went on to win that match 2-0 at Aggborough with crowd favourite Thomas keeping a clean sheet in the process.

The 35-year-old also started the FA Cup matches against Greenwich Borough, which City won 2-1, and the 2-0 replay triumph over Leamington at Aggborough in the previous round.

Thomas, who has been coaching in Holland this week, also came off the bench as a replacement for the injured Graham Hutchison in the original third qualifying round clash at the New Windmill Ground.

However, he missed the 2-1 victory at Gainsborough Trinity on October 4 due to a back injury sustained against Rugby Town in the cup last month.

Manager Carl Heeley praised the impact the former Burnley and Southampton defender has had on the squad since arriving towards the end of last season.

He said: “We have the philosophy that it’s all about the team and we have different characters within that.

“But since Wayne has come into the club he’s been the ultimate professional. The way he looks after himself and his fitness levels are what every young pro should be aspiring to. He’s a winner and will always put himself out for the team.

“He did well against Harrogate and I am delighted he has got this recognition.”

Heeley added: “I can’t remember him having an under-par performance. He is a committed figure and he’s one the rest of the players look up to.”

City are back in league action today with a trip to Leamington (3pm), their third match against the Brakes in as many weeks.