The Latics won four of their six games in December, drawing two, and are now eighth in the table.
But he told Sky Sports News: "We've had a bit of luck that we’ve not had in the past.
"There’s confidence in the camp and that comes about when you start winning games.
"When you start winning it comes on a roll and the players have been magnificent. It’s been a magnificent month, but we needed it.
"When you bring in 12 new players you’re very lucky if you get them to gel at the same time."
Carlisle United manager Paul Simpson was named League Two manager of the month, with Norwich's Nigel Worthington taking the honours in the Championship.
But he told Sky Sports News: "We've had a bit of luck that we’ve not had in the past.
"There’s confidence in the camp and that comes about when you start winning games.
"When you start winning it comes on a roll and the players have been magnificent. It’s been a magnificent month, but we needed it.
"When you bring in 12 new players you’re very lucky if you get them to gel at the same time."
Carlisle United manager Paul Simpson was named League Two manager of the month, with Norwich's Nigel Worthington taking the honours in the Championship.