Joel Matip named Premier League Player of the Month for February
Joel Matip featured in all four of Liverpool's Premier League wins in February, during which time they kept three clean sheets; Matip also scored in Liverpool's 6-0 win over Leeds; Eddie Howe led Newcastle to three wins and draw in February as his side pulled clear of the relegation zone
Friday 11 March 2022 12:16, UK
Liverpool centre-back Joel Matip has been named Premier League Player of the Month for February, while Eddie Howe has been handed the manager's award.
Matip, 30, played in all four of Liverpool's Premier League games in the month, all of which they won to help maintain their pursuit of champions Manchester City.
Matip marshalled a defence that kept three clean sheets and only let in one goal in those four encounters with Leicester, Burnley, Norwich and Leeds.
As well as those impressive displays at the back, the central defender also caught the eye at the other end of the pitch after scoring a memorable goal in Liverpool's 6-0 demolition of Leeds at Anfield on February 23.
Howe rewarded after Newcastle pick up 10 points from 12
Eddie Howe received the February Manager of the Month award after leading Newcastle to three wins and a draw from their four Premier League fixtures.
Howe, who replaced Steve Bruce as the Magpies' boss in November, oversaw home wins against Everton and Aston Villa, while they beat Brentford and drew at West Ham on their travels.
Newcastle were mired in relegation danger when Howe took over but he has led them to a remarkable revival, with his side currently on a nine-match unbeaten run in the Premier League that dates back to December.
The Magpies had failed to record a league victory before the former Bournemouth manager's arrival, but they now sit 14th in the table, 10 points clear of the relegation zone.
