MAMELODI Sundowns' red-hot striker Katlego Mphela won the December Player of the Month award for his scintillating displays, which have kept the Tshwane side in the running for the league title.

MAMELODI Sundowns' red-hot striker Katlego Mphela won the December Player of the Month award for his scintillating displays, which have kept the Tshwane side in the running for the league title.

The Brazilians are breathing heavily down SuperSport United's necks and Mphela's goals, 16 so far, have kept alive their chances of snatching the league from under their rivals' noses.

The Downs marksman attributed his good form to hard work and guidance from his coach, Hristo Stoichkov, who scooped the December Coach of the Month award.

Mphela said: "I have been working very hard. Most of my teammates did exceptionally well and deserve this award. I think all of the goals that won us matches were special but I would say the second goal I scored against Chiefs (in the 2-2 draw on October 17) was really important as we didn't drop any points."

Stoichkov, who was in a relaxed mood, said all the hard work he has been putting in is starting to pay off.

"In the beginning they were missing discipline and organisation on the field but after six months of hard work everything is starting to come right. I can select a squad with my eyes closed because the players know what to do now," the Bulgarian said.