Cel O’Reilly, Philips and Siobhan Kenny accepting the award on behalf of her husband Stephen Kenny, Manager of Dundalk F.C Soccer Team. Photo: MaxwellPhotography.ie

Stephen Kenny expressed his surprise after becoming just the third person from the League of Ireland to claim the Philips Lighting Sports Manager of the Year award.

Kenny beat off the likes of Pat Lam, Joe Schmidt, Martin O'Neill and Jim Gavin, with whom he shared the monthly award in October. He follows Jim McLaughlin and Paul Doolin as managers within the league to take the prestigious gong.

His wife Siobhan accepted it on his behalf at the Intercontinental Hotel, Dublin, as Kenny is in Israel ahead of tonight's potentially historic Europa League game against Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Dundalk could reach the last 32 if they win. It was their exploits in Europe, added to winning the league title for the third year running, which prompted the voting panel to pick the Dubliner.

Kenny said: "I wasn't really expecting it. I didn't even know if I'd get a monthly award. It's a great honour.

"Some great people have been nominated for the Manager of the Month awards; they had terrific years and in an international context too. It's difficult to decide between sports.

"I'm receiving this on behalf of Dundalk and the players. It's a collective effort. I appreciate all of the work that everyone does at the club.

"I went to the awards a couple of years ago. The managers and coaches meet beforehand and they chat. It's very interesting. There are some terrific managers and coaches in Irish sport."

Dundalk became the first Irish side to claim a point in a European group stage when holding AZ Alkmaar to a 1-1 draw in their opening group game.

Winger Daryl Horgan and defender Andy Boyle have since gained an Irish squad place under Martin O'Neill, who said that Kenny's achievement was "fantastic and it may well continue after tonight".

"He really deserved it. You have to experience a few downs before you can appreciate anything that goes up," added O'Neill.

"What he has done in Europe is the most important thing. There is no reason why he wouldn't be considered for other jobs - though I know Dundalk will slam me for saying that!"

Michael O'Neill, also a monthly winner, described what Kenny achieved as "phenomenal".

"He has done an amazing job," said the Northern Ireland manager.

Irish Independent