Raheem Sterling reiterated the need for Manchester City to win trophies after he picked up the prize for being the best player in the Premier League for December.
Sterling, 27, scooped his third Player of the Month award - only 14 players have received more - after a return to form that saw him score five goals and play a leading part in seven straight victories for Pep Guardiola's side that has pushed them clear of Chelsea and Liverpool in the title race.
The England international beat off competition from teammate Joao Cancelo to win the award, and in a further illustration of the collective quality at the Etihad he actually finished as a runner-up to the club's own monthly prize as Riyad Mahrez won that online vote.
Reacting to his Premier League recognition, Sterling spoke of his happiness at the moment and how the team are looking ahead to the business end of the season.
“I am delighted to win this award again – but December was an amazing month for the whole team," he said.
“The Premier League is the most challenging competition in the world, so to win all seven of our league games throughout the month of December is incredible. Contributing to those wins with goals has felt good and that makes me happy.
“Hopefully we can continue this form into the new year because 2021 has been brilliant for us. All of us want to win trophies at the end of the season and that is what our aim will be from now until then.”
