Aitor Karanka has been nominated for September's Championship Manager of the Month award after guiding Middlesbrough to a perfect record.
Karanka's side surged into the top two thanks to four wins out of four, conceding just two goals in the process as they moved within touching distance of league leaders Brighton & Hove Albion.
Seagulls boss Chris Hughton, who won last month's award, is again recognised after his Brighton side remained unbeaten with two wins and two draws.
In third are Reading, whose manager Steve Clarke is also on the shortlist following the Royals' three wins in four games, which lifted them into the top six.
Finally, Derby County head coach Paul Clement found his feet in the second tier after a difficult opening month, with Derby gaining 10 points out of a possible 12.
The winner will be announced on Friday morning.
