Premier League confirm surprise nomination for February's Manager of the Month

The Premier League have confirmed the three candidates to win February’s Manager of the Month award – with one particularly interesting call standing out.

January’s winner, Mikel Arteta of Arsenal, did not make the cut this time around, making space for a new winner.

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag will be a firm favourite to win the prize after steering the Red Devils back into the Premier League title picture with a run of three victories and one draw in their four games across the month.

Carabao Cup winners United emerged triumphant against Crystal Palace, Leicester and Leeds, although the latter did secure a 2-2 draw at Old Trafford to spoil what was otherwise a perfect month for Ten Hag’s side.

Fulham’s Marco Silva also oversaw an unbeaten month and makes the final shortlist after inspiring two wins and two draws, with the Cottagers conceding just one goal for good measure.

Undoubtedly the biggest surprise on the shortlist is Antonio Conte, who has not actually been at Tottenham for the majority of the month after surgery to remove his gallbladder.

Conte ceded control to assistant Cristian Stellini for the famous 1-0 win over Manchester City to kick off the month, before his return to the dugout coincided with a 4-1 mauling at the hands of Leicester City.

After being advised that he needed more rest, Conte returned to Italy and left Stellini in charge once again, with Spurs roaring to 2-0 victories over both West Ham and Chelsea in the absence of their manager.

Fans have until Monday 6 March to vote for their favourite, with a panel of experts also set to help decide the eventual winner.