Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka has been named the Sky Bet Championship Manager of the Month for January.

In a month where Karanka’s side squeezed the life out of opposition attacks, Boro conceded just one goal in four unbeaten games.George Burley, who chairs the Sky Bet Manager of the Month judging panel, said: “Aitor Karanka has really made his mark on the Boro team.“They are solid at the back and play open, creative football. Middlesbrough are looking strong contenders for automatic promotion.”Sky Sports’ Football League pundit Don Goodman said: “Jose Mourinho’s assistant at Real Madrid is starting to step out of his mentor’s shadow, bringing exciting football and an impressive string of results to The Riverside.“Karanka’s meticulous preparation allows him to get the best out of his squad and an automatic promotion place is a real possibility for Boro.”Sky Bet Football Trading Manager Paul Lowery said: “Ten points from four league games and two FA cup victories, including that famous 2-0 win at Manchester City, means few could argue with this month’s selection.“Goals from Bamford, Tomlin and Kike have helped Karanka steer Middlesbrough firmly into the race for an automatic promotion spot.”The judging panel for the Sky Bet Player of the Month comprises Sky Sports Football League expert Don Goodman; Football League Head of Communications John Nagle; League Managers Association Director Olaf Dixon and Sky Bet Football Trading Manager Paul Lowery.