Chelsea's John Obi Mikel has been named the English Premier League's African Player of the Month of December. In a statement by the organisers New African Soccer, Mikel was voted and selected ahead of West Ham's Cameroonian Alex Song and Southampton striker, Senegalese Sadio Mane in a tight vote process.

Awards Director 'Tunde Adelakun in his words said
"As always, it was a difficult choice, but a lot of factors came into consideration before we selected Mikel".

"Mikel has endured a difficult start to the season, falling down the pecking order in a star-studded Chelsea team that is riding high in the Premier League. After all, we all know that no one likes changing a winning team. However, the spirit of professionalism which he displayed in waiting for his chance, and taking it well with some solid performances in a difficult month, tipped the award his way this month" Adelakun said.

Adelakun commended the level of the African performance in the English Premier League this season so far, stating that "the Africans have been a real credit to the continent, and when we watch them in the League, it is with pride'.