EFL Unveils 2026 End-of-Season Award Shortlists

The English Football League has unveiled the shortlists for its 2026 end-of-season awards, recognizing standout performances across the Championship, League One, and League Two as the campaigns near their conclusion. Nominations highlight managers and players driving promotion pushes, with the winners set to be announced at a ceremony in London on Sunday, April 19.

In the Championship, four managers have been shortlisted for the Manager of the Season award, sponsored by Football Manager. Frank Lampard of Coventry City, who has led his team to the top of the table, is joined by Alex Neil of Millwall, Sergej Jakirovic of Hull City, and Kim Hellberg of Middlesbrough. Each nominee has guided their club into contention for promotion, with Hellberg particularly noted for transforming Middlesbrough's style since his midseason arrival, securing 12 wins in 24 games. Coventry, Middlesbrough, Hull, and Millwall all remain in the race for automatic promotion spots, with just a handful of matches left.

The Championship Player of the Season award, sponsored by Sky Bet, features four nominees whose contributions have been pivotal. Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, praised for his...