Midfielder Jack Blake Named NASL Player of the Month

Jacksonville Armada FC midfielder Jack Blake is a young star on the rise. The Englishman was stellar in August and was named NASL Player of the Month by the league’s media.

The center midfielder tallied four goals in five games during the last month, which moved him into the team lead in goals with seven.

Blake’s best game came against Indy Eleven in the 3-2 win at Carroll Stadium. The native of Nottingham, England, scored all three of Jacksonville’s goals and flashed his ability to be dangerous from set pieces. Two of Blake’s three goals came from free kicks from similar distances. It was also the first hat trick in club history.

The 22-year-old also scored from the penalty spot in Jacksonville’s 2-2 draw at North Carolina FC.

Blake’s importance has been more than just scoring goals. He’s been a consistent contributor in the middle of the field, starting all five of the club’s games in August. He also showed his grit, finishing the month tied for the second most tackles won with 10.

Blake signed for Jacksonville on January 18, 2017, and has since blossomed with the club. He’s started 19 of his 20 appearances. The youngster made his debut in the NASL in 2016, playing 11 times with Minnesota United a year ago.

Before coming stateside, Blake grew up in the Nottingham Forest Academy before joining the club’s first team from 2013-15. The Englishman also spent a loan spell in 2013 with English side Mansfield Town.

Blake and Jacksonville will be back in action on Saturday night against Indy Eleven. The contest kicks off at 7 p.m. ET at Hodges Stadium. The game can be seen on CW17 (Jacksonville), MeTV (Orlando), ESPN3 and NASL.com (Canada and the rest of the world).