Crusaders star Ben Kennedy has won the Dream Spanish Homes Player of the Month prize for August.

After almost a year on the sidelines through injury, Kennedy has roared back with five goals in the month including a stunning four-goal haul against Carrick Rangers.

Upon collecting the prize, Kennedy said: "I would like to thank Dream Spanish Homes and the Football Writers' for this trophy. It's my first monthly award, but hopefully not my last.

"I have to put these things in perspective. I've had a year out of the game, I'm proud of what I've achieved and it's nice to get a pat on the back for it. I'm hungry for more, now.

"I really want to have a good season after a tough time last year."

The August runner-up was Linfield star Joel Cooper while Cliftonville's Ben Wilson took third spot.