CHAMPIONSHIP player of the month Robbie Blake has dedicated his March award to his team-mates.

The 33-year-old came out top of a four-strong list of challengers - including Norwich City’s Sammy Clingan, David Cotterill of Sheffield United and Wolves’ Michael Kightly - through his influential performances, and goals and assists against both Nottingham Forest and Plymouth as Burnley stepped up their push for the play-offs.

But as much as Blake was grateful of the honour, he stressed the Clarets’ bid to finish in the top six was all about teamwork.

“It’s nice to get awards for playing well but it’s as much of a pleasure to be in this team at the moment and I think I have to thank all my team-mates,” said the former Bradford and Birmingham striker, who is in his second spell at Turf Moor.

“They have been outstanding and it’s nice for the club to be rewarded for all our efforts.

“We’ve had a successful season so far; things haven’t gone much better than this throughout my career.

“I don’t think I’ve played as consistently for a long time, but that’s because I’ve got good team mates all around me, playing good football and having belief in you.

“Hopefully there are a few years left in the old legs yet because I am really enjoying my football. The gaffer has assembled a great set of lads and it’s a pleasure to come in and work with them every morning.

“It’s great to be around this club at the moment. We are going in the right direction and hopefully we can continue that and really push for promotion between now and May.”

Fifth-placed Burnley go into the last five natches of the season on a six-game unbeaten run, with just one defeat in their last 12 league games, and Blake added: “We just have to keep doing what we’ve been doing, but there’s a long road ahead.

“I know there are only five games left and we are in pole position, but we can’t rest on our laurels.

“We have to be positive and professional and make sure we get the results.”

Chris Kamara, chairman of the Powerade Player of the Month Awards panel, said: “Robbie Blake gets better and better with age.

"Outside of the Premier League he’s one of the best around.”