New York City FC goalkeeper Josh Saunders has been named the Etihad Airways Player of the Month for March.

The 34-year-old Major League Soccer veteran played an integral role in the Club's first month of existence. Saunders had 11 saves, with a season-high seven on March 21 at Colorado, as New York City FC registered consecutive shutouts, including their first-ever victory on March 15 against New England.

"Josh has been huge," head coach Jason Kreis said after the scoreless draw against the Rapids. "This is three games in a row he's been huge. You need players to step up and have big performances if you want to get results. He was a big factor in this one today, no doubt."

Saunders, who now has 22 shutouts in his MLS career, has been nominated for MLS Save of the Week three times already this season.

"I just try to play part of the defense, stay connected and do my job," he said. "I’m just doing what I can."

Also nominated for the Etihad Airways Player of the Month were forward David Villa and midfielder Mix Diskerud.