LEEDS United manager Marcelo Bielsa has been named the Sky Bet Championship Manager of the Month for November.

It was a perfect month for Bielsa with five wins in as many games allowing Leeds to move ominously to the top of the Championship table.

The fitness and pressing game he demands helped secure an impressive 11-2 goal differential.

Bielsa said: “To recognise the manager is one way to recognise everybody who is helping the team and more than help, having some impact and influence on the team, but of course what's more important is the input of the players.

“We know that every team has different periods in the competition when you are better and worse, but it's no coincidence [the award] comes at the moment of the competition when Leeds have a high impact."

Danny Wilson chairs the Sky Bet Manager of the Month judging panel.

He said: “Marcelo and his Leeds team have certainly turned the heat up on their Championship promotion rivals over the last few weeks.

“Marcelo has maintained that really rewarding high-tempo game we have been accustomed to when watching his team.

“With WBA and Fulham still hot on their heels, Leeds really have the bit between their teeth, and the upcoming festive fixtures promise to be exciting and intriguing in equal measure.”

Former City striker turned Sky Sports’ EFL pundit Don Goodman said: “The enigmatic Argentine continues to prove that his less than conventional training methods are an inspiration to his team as they continue their brilliance where it matters, on a match day.

“Bielsa’s charges recorded five wins from five in November, shipping just two goals in the process, and along with West Bromwich Albion, have cemented themselves as Championship front-runners as we approach the busy Christmas period.”