Pienaar Scoops December Prize

South African named Everton's Player of the Month.

Steven Pienaar has been named Everton's player of the month for December 2012.

The South African midfielder was an ever-present for the Blues during the final month of last year, scoring three goals in games against Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United and Chelsea.

The 30-year-old has continued his fine form at the start of 2013, helping the Club progress through to the FA Cup fifth round and maintain their hunt for Champions League qualification.

Most recently, Pienaar scored his fifth goal of the season against Bolton Wanderers at the Reebok Stadium last weekend.

He collected his award at a special lunch at the Hilton Hotel in Liverpool City centre on Thursday.

He told evertontv: “I’m pleased. November wasn’t a good month personally but the manager stuck with me. I had to pay him back and in December I did my best.

“January has also been a good month. We haven’t lost and we want to keep on going in the right direction and picking up points. Hopefully we can go all the way in the cup as well.”

Tickets for Saturday's visit of Aston Villa are still available. To buy, click here or call 0871 663 1878.

Alternatively, visit the Park End Box Office at Goodison Park, Everton Two in Liverpool One or Ticket Quarter in Queen Square.