JERMAIN Defoe has won the Premier League's goal-of-the-month award for December courtesy of his stunning half-volley against Crystal Palace.

The Cherries striker looped an angled effort over goalkeeper Julian Speroni in the 2-2 draw at Selhurst Park.

Defoe told the Premier League website: "It was instinctive and to be honest I don't know why I shot from there.

"I had a little glimpse of the goalkeeper out of position and I wanted to direct it back across goal.

"Sometimes you try things and they come off. I surprised myself. It's up there as one of my best goals."

Defoe's goal was declared the winner following voting by a panel of experts and the public.

Mo Salah, Mesut Ozil and Philippe Coutinho were among the other players nominated.

England international Defoe is the second Cherries player to win the award following Charlie Daniels's Exocet against Manchester City in August.