adminLONDON. — Southampton duo Ronald Koeman and Graziano Pelle have landed the Barclays English Premier League Manager and Player of the Month awards for September.
Koeman guided the Saints to three wins out of three last month, beating Newcastle, Swansea and QPR in a sparkling run of form which lifted them to second place in the league.
The Dutchman fought off competition from Leicester boss Nigel Pearson, Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock and Chelsea’s Jose Mourinho, who all enjoyed a successful month.
In-form striker Pelle edged out team-mate Morgan Schneiderlin to the award after netting three goals – two in the 4-0 win over Newcastle and a superb, acrobatic winner against QPR.
Speaking after receiving the award, Koeman said: “It’s a nice compliment. It’s an award and I knew that in England they give an award every month and they have the award for the best manager of the month and even the best player.
“We had a nice start to the season and for that, it’s nice to win of course. It’s a personal prize but, as we know we do it together. You need players with good spirit, good ambition and I’m proud of the players for the start of the season but we have to continue.” — Soccernet.
Online Reporter