Leading marksman on monthly gongs
Striker Mark Cullen says he will work even harder in his bid to fire the Town to glory season after scooping two awards following his performances in October.The 22-year-old won the Sky Bet League 2 Player of the Month for October, and an award from the Professional Footballers’ Association in a vote polled by supporters online.
Cullen, who struck five goals in four games last month – including the ‘perfect’ hat-trick against Dagenham & Redbridge – was understandably delighted to be recognised.
“I’m over the moon,” said the former Hull forward. “I didn’t really expect it to be honest, but it’s pleasing to be rewarded individually after such a good month.
“I always knew I could make the step-up and I think I’ve now shown I can capable of scoring goals at this level.
“Now it’s up to me to continue it. I’ll work harder. I want more personal success and team success.”
On Saturday the Hatters aim for a place in the second round of the FA Cup when they take on Newport County at Kenilworth Road.
And Cullen, who scored the winning goal in the 1-0 win over Woking in the fourth qualifying round stage of the competition last season, is hoping this year’s run in the Cup can be a long and fruitful one – despite the self-confessed Newcastle fan’s mixed memories of the tournament.
“I remember my professional debut in the FA Cup against Wigan,” said Cullen. “That wasn’t a good day but it is a lasting memory in my mind.
“I also remember the late 1990s that Newcastle got into a couple of finals and didn’t win, no surprise there…so I’ve got bad memories really of the FA Cup!
“Luton had a good run a couple of years ago, so hopefully we can have another good one this year and draw against some big teams further down the line.
“We’ll go and try and make our own memories Saturday though and get a good result, but we have to concentrate on this Saturday and try and get the win.”
Meanwhile, John Still had this to say after it was revealed he and Mark Cullen had won the October gongs: