Newry City star Noel Healy is the NIFWA Championship Player of the Month for January.

The 22 year-old has played a crucial role in City’s recent good run of form, that has lifted Darren Mullen’s side eight points clear at the top of the division. In the month of January, Newry defeated Ballinamallard United and Dundela, as well as knocking Warrenpoint Town out of the Irish Cup.

A delighted Healy said: “I’d like to thank the Football Writers’ for this award, it means a lot to me.

“At Newry, we’re enjoying a great season. If we keep working hard, I’m confident we can win promotion to the Premiership.”

Tonight, Newry host fellow Championship side Ards in the second round of the Samuel Gelston Irish Cup.

Looking ahead to the game, Healy said: “It’s a great opportunity for us to reach the quarter-finals. We’re expecting a big crowd at the Newry Showgrounds, so there should be a great atmosphere under the lights.”