It was back to thrilling business as usual for&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City&nbsp;on Saturday as Sergio Aguero&#39;s hat-trick helped the Premier League leaders to a 3-1 victory over abject Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola demanded a response from his table-toppers following the 4-3 loss to Liverpool last Sunday that ended their unbeaten start to the league season.

The&nbsp;City manager got just that as the hosts dominated, despite Newcastle making it interesting for a while in the second half thanks to Jacob Murphy&#39;s fine finish.

The city&nbsp;is again 12 points clear of second-placed&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;United thanks to a ruthless performance capped by the brilliant Aguero, their all-time leading scorer, whose 11th hat-trick for the club took his tally for the season to 22 goals.

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Back on track ????<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cityvnufc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cityvnufc</a> highlights... 
 
SHORT: <a href="https://t.co/Wr7IPLf2zx">https://t.co/Wr7IPLf2zx</a> 
 
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Newcastle&#39;s supporters must look at&nbsp;City&nbsp;and wonder how close they are to getting their own rich new owners after a week in which a potential takeover of the club by British businesswoman Amanda Staveley was branded &quot;frustrating and a complete waste of time&quot; by owner Mike Ashley.

With Newcastle suffering from a lack of investment and hovering at the wrong end of the table, this contest was never going to be a comfortable one for Rafa Benitez&#39;s visitors, especially as the gifted David Silva returned for&nbsp;City&nbsp;after overcoming a stomach complaint.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Yet Newcastle still looked sharper at the start as Christian Atsu snatched at a great chance just 90 seconds in, failing to connect properly when well positioned on the penalty spot.&nbsp;

City&nbsp;then began to dictate the match and John Stones went close for the hosts, poking just wide after an intelligent ball from Silva inside the area.&nbsp;

The city&nbsp;remained on top, with Silva, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kevin De Bruyne posing problems for Newcastle.

&nbsp;

Manchester City is again 12 points clear of second-placed Manchester United

It was back to thrilling business as usual for Manchester City on Saturday as Sergio Aguero's hat-trick helped the Premier League leaders to a 3-1 victory over abject Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola demanded a response from his table-toppers following the 4-3 loss to Liverpool last Sunday that ended their unbeaten start to the league season. The City manager got just that as the hosts dominated, despite Newcastle making it interesting for a while in the second half thanks to Jacob Murphy's fine finish. The city is again 12 points clear of second-placed Manchester United thanks to a ruthless performance capped by the brilliant Aguero, their all-time leading scorer, whose 11th hat-trick for the club took his tally for the season to 22 goals. Back on track ????#cityvnufc highlights... SHORT: https://t.co/Wr7IPLf2zx EXTENDED: https://t.co/Cum2pNAv2t pic.twitter.com/9wep6bVA09 — Manchester City (@ManCity) January 21, 2018 × Newcastle's supporters must look at City and wonder how close they are to getting their own rich new owners after a week in which a potential takeover of the club by British businesswoman Amanda Staveley was branded "frustrating and a complete waste of time" by owner Mike Ashley. With Newcastle suffering from a lack of investment and hovering at the wrong end of the table, this contest was never going to be a comfortable one for Rafa Benitez's visitors, especially as the gifted David Silva returned for City after overcoming a stomach complaint. Yet Newcastle still looked sharper at the start as Christian Atsu snatched at a great chance just 90 seconds in, failing to connect properly when well positioned on the penalty spot. City then began to dictate the match and John Stones went close for the hosts, poking just wide after an intelligent ball from Silva inside the area. The city remained on top, with Silva, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kevin De Bruyne posing problems for Newcastle.

EPL: Aguero hat-trick reboots Man City's title charge

Pep Guardiola hailed Sergio Aguero as an &quot;authentic legend&quot; of Manchester City after his four second-half goals continued the club&#39;s emphatic march towards the Premier League title with a 5-1 thrashing of Leicester.

Raheem Sterling had given City an early lead on Saturday but Leicester went into the break on level terms thanks to Jamie Vardy&#39;s equaliser.

However, Aguero took centre stage with a finishing masterclass to take his tally in City&#39;s last seven home games to 14 goals as Guardiola&#39;s side moved 16 points clear.

&quot;An authentic legend of this club,&quot; said Guardiola of his prolific Argentine striker.

&quot;In the second half he scored four goals. Sergio is like this, he has a special talent in the box. He&#39;s clinical... especially the third one and fourth one are amazing.&quot;

Aguero now has 28 goals in all competitions this season -&ndash; eight more than Sterling.

&ldquo;So we try to create a lot of chances to score the goals he does, and he always does. Congratulations to him because it&#39;s not easy to score four goals,&quot; added Guardiola.

&ldquo;When one player&nbsp;is able to score four goals, he deserves all the credit and the nice words. He fights, he plays really good and he scored. We needed it.&ldquo;

Guardiola believes the win was &ldquo;one of the best&rdquo; performances his players have produced since he took over at City but urged them not to let their intensity drop.

&ldquo;My advice for the players is not to think how many games are left, just to look to the next one,&rdquo; he said.

&ldquo;Every time we dropped points this season, the next game we won, which is so, so important. Keeping that consistency is so important for us. If we are able to win the title it will be something special for us.&quot;

Leicester manager Claude Puel brought Riyad Mahrez off the bench in the second half as the winger made his first appearance since a self-imposed exile following the collapse of a deadline day transfer to City.

And Puel claimed both he and the Algeria international will not focus their efforts on the rest of the season without any issues.

&ldquo;I said before my last press conference it was important for him to come back quick,&rdquo; Puel said.

&ldquo;He maintained a good level and it was important he was back in the squad. We have lost time and now it is important to look forward. The transfer window is finished.

&ldquo;Since the beginning of the transfer window we took a decision with the club, to protect the squad. Riyad came back, and he is an important player.

&ldquo;Now it is about time to move on together and of course we are stronger with him. It is important to move together with good solidarity and understanding together.&quot;

&nbsp;

"An authentic legend of this club," said the City coach Pep Guardiola

Pep Guardiola hailed Sergio Aguero as an "authentic legend" of Manchester City after his four second-half goals continued the club's emphatic march towards the Premier League title with a 5-1 thrashing of Leicester. Raheem Sterling had given City an early lead on Saturday but Leicester went into the break on level terms thanks to Jamie Vardy's equaliser. However, Aguero took centre stage with a finishing masterclass to take his tally in City's last seven home games to 14 goals as Guardiola's side moved 16 points clear. "An authentic legend of this club," said Guardiola of his prolific Argentine striker. "In the second half he scored four goals. Sergio is like this, he has a special talent in the box. He's clinical... especially the third one and fourth one are amazing." Aguero now has 28 goals in all competitions this season -– eight more than Sterling. “So we try to create a lot of chances to score the goals he does, and he always does. Congratulations to him because it's not easy to score four goals," added Guardiola. “When one player is able to score four goals, he deserves all the credit and the nice words. He fights, he plays really good and he scored. We needed it.“ Guardiola believes the win was “one of the best” performances his players have produced since he took over at City but urged them not to let their intensity drop. “My advice for the players is not to think how many games are left, just to look to the next one,” he said. “Every time we dropped points this season, the next game we won, which is so, so important. Keeping that consistency is so important for us. If we are able to win the title it will be something special for us." Leicester manager Claude Puel brought Riyad Mahrez off the bench in the second half as the winger made his first appearance since a self-imposed exile following the collapse of a deadline day transfer to City. And Puel claimed both he and the Algeria international will not focus their efforts on the rest of the season without any issues. “I said before my last press conference it was important for him to come back quick,” Puel said. “He maintained a good level and it was important he was back in the squad. We have lost time and now it is important to look forward. The transfer window is finished. “Since the beginning of the transfer window we took a decision with the club, to protect the squad. Riyad came back, and he is an important player. “Now it is about time to move on together and of course we are stronger with him. It is important to move together with good solidarity and understanding together."

EPL: Sergio Aguero's four-goal show inspires Man City to stylish win

Manchester United have to continue fighting for the Premier League title regardless of the 13-point gap to leaders Manchester City, defender Antonio Valencia said.

United are second on 56 points with 12 games remaining but Valencia said the club cannot lose hope yet, pointing to how their cross-town rivals overcame an eight-point deficit in the final six games to pip them to the title in the 2011-12 season.

&quot;We lost a title when we were eight points ahead and there were only a few games left. Now, we have a lot more games to play and we need to keep fighting,&quot; Valencia told the club`s website (www.manutd.com). &quot;We need to keep going.

&quot;The important thing is to get the three points, playing at home, playing well, and we will carry on with this mentality until the end of the season.&quot;

United bounced back from a 2-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur last Wednesday to beat Huddersfield Town 2-0 on Saturday.&nbsp;

&quot;We have shown that we have the quality and conditions to fight until the end of the season,&quot; Valencia added.

United travel to 16th-placed Newcastle United on Sunday.

United bounced back from a 2-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur last Wednesday to beat Huddersfield Town 2-0 on Saturday.

Manchester United have to continue fighting for the Premier League title regardless of the 13-point gap to leaders Manchester City, defender Antonio Valencia said. United are second on 56 points with 12 games remaining but Valencia said the club cannot lose hope yet, pointing to how their cross-town rivals overcame an eight-point deficit in the final six games to pip them to the title in the 2011-12 season. "We lost a title when we were eight points ahead and there were only a few games left. Now, we have a lot more games to play and we need to keep fighting," Valencia told the club`s website (www.manutd.com). "We need to keep going. "The important thing is to get the three points, playing at home, playing well, and we will carry on with this mentality until the end of the season." United bounced back from a 2-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur last Wednesday to beat Huddersfield Town 2-0 on Saturday. "We have shown that we have the quality and conditions to fight until the end of the season," Valencia added. United travel to 16th-placed Newcastle United on Sunday.

Football: Valencia urges United to stay in hunt for Premier League title

Manchester City winger Raheem&nbsp;Sterling&nbsp;has hit out at the quality of officials in England, claiming players could miss the World Cup because they&rsquo;re being &quot;butchered&quot; by bad challenges.

City star Leroy Sane was sidelined for up to seven weeks after a bad tackle by Cardiff&rsquo;s Joe Bennett in their 2-0 win in the FA Cup last weekend.

Referee Bobby Madley then failed to show a red card to West Brom&rsquo;s Matt Phillips after his knee-high challenge on youngster Brahim Diaz in the closing stages.

It follows a glut of incidents on City players this season, none of which were punished with dismissals.

Manager Pep Guardiola has repeatedly asked for referees to protect the players, but his calls appear to fall on deaf ears.

But now&nbsp;Sterling, 23, is backing up his manager, saying the nature of the tackles could put those on the receiving end in serious trouble.

He said: &ldquo;I find it a bit unfair at times. I feel that we haven&rsquo;t been protected enough in certain situations. I think some of the challenges have been awful.

&ldquo;It&rsquo;s not what I expect to see in a top-flight football match -- especially when teams are losing and just go out to kick players.

&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t think that&rsquo;s right. I do think we need to cut down on that because we&rsquo;ve got a World Cup at the end of the year and majority of the players in the top flight and in our team will be playing in it.

&ldquo;It would be sad to see someone miss the tournament due to a silly tackle and someone gets away with it.

&ldquo;These tackles can happen -- but it can&rsquo;t be every game we&rsquo;re getting two players coming in with injuries.

&ldquo;There are going to be challenges that are badly timed and probably not all of them are intentional, but at the same time, if it&rsquo;s a dangerous tackle, it&rsquo;s a dangerous tackle.

&ldquo;I think the referees and officials need to cut these tackles out because as you can see some of the players are getting butchered out there and it&rsquo;s sad to see.

&ldquo;But I just feel we need to try and cut this out of the game.&rdquo;

Guardiola has called for officials to protect not just his stars, but all players -- though he has not had much support from his peers.

Cardiff boss Neil Warnock commented after the FA Cup tie that Guardiola should expect strong challenges in England, while West Brom manager Alan Pardew accused the Catalan of trying to get the crowd to put pressure on the referee.

It was sparked by several weeks of incidents that could have left some of the Premier League leaders&rsquo; team badly hurt.

Kevin De Bruyne was stretchered off at Crystal Palace after being hacked down by Jason Puncheon, weeks after he was on the receiving end of a studs-up challenge by Tottenham&rsquo;s Dele Alli.

Sterling&nbsp;was also caught late by Harry Kane in the first half of that match, which finished 4-1 to City.

City already has long-term injury problems with Benjamin Mendy, Gabriel Jesus and Sane still missing.

&nbsp;

Raheem Sterling has hit out at the quality of officials in England, claiming players could miss the World Cup because they’re being "butchered" by bad challenges

Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling has hit out at the quality of officials in England, claiming players could miss the World Cup because they’re being "butchered" by bad challenges. City star Leroy Sane was sidelined for up to seven weeks after a bad tackle by Cardiff’s Joe Bennett in their 2-0 win in the FA Cup last weekend. Referee Bobby Madley then failed to show a red card to West Brom’s Matt Phillips after his knee-high challenge on youngster Brahim Diaz in the closing stages. It follows a glut of incidents on City players this season, none of which were punished with dismissals. Manager Pep Guardiola has repeatedly asked for referees to protect the players, but his calls appear to fall on deaf ears. But now Sterling, 23, is backing up his manager, saying the nature of the tackles could put those on the receiving end in serious trouble. He said: “I find it a bit unfair at times. I feel that we haven’t been protected enough in certain situations. I think some of the challenges have been awful. “It’s not what I expect to see in a top-flight football match -- especially when teams are losing and just go out to kick players. “I don’t think that’s right. I do think we need to cut down on that because we’ve got a World Cup at the end of the year and majority of the players in the top flight and in our team will be playing in it. “It would be sad to see someone miss the tournament due to a silly tackle and someone gets away with it. “These tackles can happen -- but it can’t be every game we’re getting two players coming in with injuries. “There are going to be challenges that are badly timed and probably not all of them are intentional, but at the same time, if it’s a dangerous tackle, it’s a dangerous tackle. “I think the referees and officials need to cut these tackles out because as you can see some of the players are getting butchered out there and it’s sad to see. “But I just feel we need to try and cut this out of the game.” Guardiola has called for officials to protect not just his stars, but all players -- though he has not had much support from his peers. Cardiff boss Neil Warnock commented after the FA Cup tie that Guardiola should expect strong challenges in England, while West Brom manager Alan Pardew accused the Catalan of trying to get the crowd to put pressure on the referee. It was sparked by several weeks of incidents that could have left some of the Premier League leaders’ team badly hurt. Kevin De Bruyne was stretchered off at Crystal Palace after being hacked down by Jason Puncheon, weeks after he was on the receiving end of a studs-up challenge by Tottenham’s Dele Alli. Sterling was also caught late by Harry Kane in the first half of that match, which finished 4-1 to City. City already has long-term injury problems with Benjamin Mendy, Gabriel Jesus and Sane still missing.

EPL: Man City players butchered by poor tackles, says Sterling

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said his team would not concede defeat in the Premier League title race if they were in the same position as Manchester United.

United manager Jose Mourinho conceded the title to runaway leaders City for the first time on Friday with the 20-times champions running second, 15 points behind City with 13 games left.

Asked ahead of City&#39;s trip to seventh-placed Burnley on Saturday if he would give up on Mourinho&#39;s position, Guardiola said: &quot;No, I don&#39;t think so. That is not going to happen.

&quot;We have shown even in our two defeats this season that we will try until the very end. We play every game to give sense to what we are doing. I know the 15-point distance is quite big at the moment. It&#39;s the same gap from six games ago.

&quot;In football and in sports anything can happen. You are good today but tomorrow you are bad. The most important thing we have done is the focus. In my experience, until everything is done, you have to be prepared for anything to happen.&quot;

City has endured a hectic season having progressed to the Champions League last 16, the FA Cup fifth round and the League Cup final apart from dominating the league and Guardiola said he would rest his players following the Burnley game.

&quot;After the game against Burnley until next Wednesday the players will be resting,&quot; Guardiola added.

&quot;The players can do whatever they want, they can travel or whatever. If they want to go and find some sunshine or stay here in Manchester, they can do what they like. They are free.&quot;

&nbsp;

United manager Jose Mourinho conceded the title to runaway leaders City for the first time on Friday with the 20-times champions running second, 15 points behind City with 13 games left

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said his team would not concede defeat in the Premier League title race if they were in the same position as Manchester United. United manager Jose Mourinho conceded the title to runaway leaders City for the first time on Friday with the 20-times champions running second, 15 points behind City with 13 games left. Asked ahead of City's trip to seventh-placed Burnley on Saturday if he would give up on Mourinho's position, Guardiola said: "No, I don't think so. That is not going to happen. "We have shown even in our two defeats this season that we will try until the very end. We play every game to give sense to what we are doing. I know the 15-point distance is quite big at the moment. It's the same gap from six games ago. "In football and in sports anything can happen. You are good today but tomorrow you are bad. The most important thing we have done is the focus. In my experience, until everything is done, you have to be prepared for anything to happen." City has endured a hectic season having progressed to the Champions League last 16, the FA Cup fifth round and the League Cup final apart from dominating the league and Guardiola said he would rest his players following the Burnley game. "After the game against Burnley until next Wednesday the players will be resting," Guardiola added. "The players can do whatever they want, they can travel or whatever. If they want to go and find some sunshine or stay here in Manchester, they can do what they like. They are free."

'I won't concede title if in Man United's position' says Pep Guardiola

Premier League leaders Manchester City paid the price for missed chances as they were held to a 1-1 draw at Burnley on Saturday with Johann Berg Gudmundsson&rsquo;s 82nd minute equaliser earning the hosts a share of the points.

City had dominated possession throughout most of the game, which they strolled through for large spells, but after taking the lead with a beautiful strike from Brazilian Danilo in the 22nd minute, they failed to press home their advantage.

Raheem Sterling produced one of the misses of the season &ndash; somehow putting the ball wide just one metre out from the empty goal and Burnley made the most of that let-off.

City extended their lead to 16 points over second-placed rivals Manchester United, who were hosting Huddesfield Town later on Saturday. City now have 69 points from 26 games.

City manager Pep Guardiola, without the injured David Silva, Leroy Sane and Gabriel Jesus, named only six substitutes including club record signing Aymeric Laporte, signed for a club record 57 million pounds ($80.48 million) last week.

In an attacking line-up, Burnley boss Sean Dyche gave winger Aaron Lennon his first start since joining from Everton.

City went ahead when a short corner was worked to Danilo and, enjoying plenty of space, the Brazilian unleashed an unstoppable drive from outside the area.

City quality

The Clarets were struggling to create openings but when Jack Cork looped the ball into the area, it fell to defender Ben Mee whose volley forced a good save from Ederson.

Former City youth team player Mee had another half-chance minutes later but his header from a corner flashed just wide.

City showcased their quality in the 39th minute with a flowing move from the back, ending with a powerful drive from Kevin De Bruyne which keeper Nick Pope did well to keep out.

After the break, there was almost a repeat of the opening goal when City again found Danilo from a corner but this time the full back&rsquo;s shot was tipped over by Pope.

Somehow Burnley were still in the game and they came close to levelling when a fine Lennon strike was pushed against the woodwork by Ederson.

That brought the game to life and City pushed forward with increased urgency and should have doubled their lead when Kyle Walker played the ball across the face of goal and somehow Sterling put it wide from point-blank range.

City were made to pay when Burnley substitute Matt Lowton floated in a cross from the right and Gudmundsson met it on the half-volley to fire home and give the hosts one of the more memorable results of a season that has defied expectations.

City had dominated possession throughout most of the game, which they strolled through for large spells, but after taking the lead with a beautiful strike from Brazilian Danilo in the 22nd minute, they failed to press home their advantage

Premier League leaders Manchester City paid the price for missed chances as they were held to a 1-1 draw at Burnley on Saturday with Johann Berg Gudmundsson’s 82nd minute equaliser earning the hosts a share of the points. City had dominated possession throughout most of the game, which they strolled through for large spells, but after taking the lead with a beautiful strike from Brazilian Danilo in the 22nd minute, they failed to press home their advantage. Raheem Sterling produced one of the misses of the season – somehow putting the ball wide just one metre out from the empty goal and Burnley made the most of that let-off. City extended their lead to 16 points over second-placed rivals Manchester United, who were hosting Huddesfield Town later on Saturday. City now have 69 points from 26 games. City manager Pep Guardiola, without the injured David Silva, Leroy Sane and Gabriel Jesus, named only six substitutes including club record signing Aymeric Laporte, signed for a club record 57 million pounds ($80.48 million) last week. In an attacking line-up, Burnley boss Sean Dyche gave winger Aaron Lennon his first start since joining from Everton. City went ahead when a short corner was worked to Danilo and, enjoying plenty of space, the Brazilian unleashed an unstoppable drive from outside the area. City quality The Clarets were struggling to create openings but when Jack Cork looped the ball into the area, it fell to defender Ben Mee whose volley forced a good save from Ederson. Former City youth team player Mee had another half-chance minutes later but his header from a corner flashed just wide. City showcased their quality in the 39th minute with a flowing move from the back, ending with a powerful drive from Kevin De Bruyne which keeper Nick Pope did well to keep out. After the break, there was almost a repeat of the opening goal when City again found Danilo from a corner but this time the full back’s shot was tipped over by Pope. Somehow Burnley were still in the game and they came close to levelling when a fine Lennon strike was pushed against the woodwork by Ederson. That brought the game to life and City pushed forward with increased urgency and should have doubled their lead when Kyle Walker played the ball across the face of goal and somehow Sterling put it wide from point-blank range. City were made to pay when Burnley substitute Matt Lowton floated in a cross from the right and Gudmundsson met it on the half-volley to fire home and give the hosts one of the more memorable results of a season that has defied expectations.

Manchester City held at Burnley after late Gudmundsson equaliser

The form table suggests Liverpool have realistic hopes of disrupting Manchester City&#39;s waltz towards the Premier League title when they meet on Sunday, although they must quickly learn how to cope without Philippe Coutinho.

The Brazilian playmaker completed a 142 million-pound ($192 million) move to Barcelona on Monday, meaning Juergen Klopp&#39;s &quot;fab four&quot; up front is now just a three.

Unbeaten City are 15 points clear at the top of the table, having scored more goals than anybody with 64, but fourth-placed Liverpool come second on that count with 50.

Klopp&#39;s side are unbeaten in 17 games in all competitions since they were thrashed 4-1 by Tottenham on Oct. 22.

Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah is set to return from injury and he and Sadio Mane are likely to play either side of striker Roberto Firmino.

Although Coutinho will no longer be able to provide the trio with ammunition, they still have the speed and guile to trouble Pep Guardiola&#39;s side at the back.

Former Liverpool midfielder Jason McAteer believes the Reds can get at City&#39;s defence.

&quot;We know Manchester City&#39;s quality, we know that they&#39;re running away with (the league) at the minute, but I think, on their day, Liverpool can match anybody,&quot; McAteer told the Liverpool website.

&quot;They&#39;re so good going forward. You&#39;ve got to be (wary) of the attacking prowess that they&#39;ve got but there are areas of weakness.

&quot;If you can get in between the lines and at the two centre-halves, which I feel we can, then there are chances and goals there.&quot;

City, however, will look to repeat their dominant 5-0 victory over Liverpool at the Etihad in September, although they will be without injured striker Gabriel Jesus, who scored a brace that day.

This time they will have Virgil van Dijk in their way with the Liverpool defender set to make his Premier League debut after his move from Southampton.

Van Dijk enjoyed a dramatic debut for his new team in the FA Cup, scoring late on against Everton to earn Liverpool a derby victory.

City&#39;s Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne said his team would just focus on their own performance.

&quot;We go there to win the game,&quot; he said. &quot;They will have a very strong team and they want to be there for the Champions League (places).

&quot;We just try to do the things that we do well and then we will see what happens.&quot;

Second-placed Manchester United host Stoke City on Monday, the visitors currently without a coach after sacking Mark Hughes following their FA Cup defeat by League Two Coventry City.

Coach Eddie Niedzwiecki is in temporary charge of the team for the trip to Old Trafford, with Jose Mourinho&#39;s side anxious to keep ahead of the chasing pack behind Manchester City.

The Portuguese has been embroiled in a war of words with Chelsea coach Antonio Conte, whose side host Leicester City on Saturday when a victory would see them provisionally move above United into second.

Tottenham host Everton on Saturday and Arsenal travel to Bournemouth on Sunday. Crystal Palace face Burnley, Huddersfield meet West Ham United and Newcastle United entertain Swansea City in other weekend matches.

Klopp's side are unbeaten in 17 games in all competitions since they were thrashed 4-1 by Tottenham on Oct. 22.

The form table suggests Liverpool have realistic hopes of disrupting Manchester City's waltz towards the Premier League title when they meet on Sunday, although they must quickly learn how to cope without Philippe Coutinho. The Brazilian playmaker completed a 142 million-pound ($192 million) move to Barcelona on Monday, meaning Juergen Klopp's "fab four" up front is now just a three. Unbeaten City are 15 points clear at the top of the table, having scored more goals than anybody with 64, but fourth-placed Liverpool come second on that count with 50. Klopp's side are unbeaten in 17 games in all competitions since they were thrashed 4-1 by Tottenham on Oct. 22. Egyptian winger Mohamed Salah is set to return from injury and he and Sadio Mane are likely to play either side of striker Roberto Firmino. Although Coutinho will no longer be able to provide the trio with ammunition, they still have the speed and guile to trouble Pep Guardiola's side at the back. Former Liverpool midfielder Jason McAteer believes the Reds can get at City's defence. "We know Manchester City's quality, we know that they're running away with (the league) at the minute, but I think, on their day, Liverpool can match anybody," McAteer told the Liverpool website. "They're so good going forward. You've got to be (wary) of the attacking prowess that they've got but there are areas of weakness. "If you can get in between the lines and at the two centre-halves, which I feel we can, then there are chances and goals there." City, however, will look to repeat their dominant 5-0 victory over Liverpool at the Etihad in September, although they will be without injured striker Gabriel Jesus, who scored a brace that day. This time they will have Virgil van Dijk in their way with the Liverpool defender set to make his Premier League debut after his move from Southampton. Van Dijk enjoyed a dramatic debut for his new team in the FA Cup, scoring late on against Everton to earn Liverpool a derby victory. City's Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne said his team would just focus on their own performance. "We go there to win the game," he said. "They will have a very strong team and they want to be there for the Champions League (places). "We just try to do the things that we do well and then we will see what happens." Second-placed Manchester United host Stoke City on Monday, the visitors currently without a coach after sacking Mark Hughes following their FA Cup defeat by League Two Coventry City. Coach Eddie Niedzwiecki is in temporary charge of the team for the trip to Old Trafford, with Jose Mourinho's side anxious to keep ahead of the chasing pack behind Manchester City. The Portuguese has been embroiled in a war of words with Chelsea coach Antonio Conte, whose side host Leicester City on Saturday when a victory would see them provisionally move above United into second. Tottenham host Everton on Saturday and Arsenal travel to Bournemouth on Sunday. Crystal Palace face Burnley, Huddersfield meet West Ham United and Newcastle United entertain Swansea City in other weekend matches.

Football: Liverpool, without Philippe Coutinho, out to halt Manchester City march

Sergio Aguero says he would like to see out his present contract with runaway Premier League leaders Manchester City which runs until 2020.

However, he looks set for a long run in the starting line-up with Brazil youngster Gabriel Jesus suffering a knee ligament injury in Sunday&#39;s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace.

&quot;I have until 2020, I think,&quot; said Aguero regarding his contract.

&quot;The truth is that I hope to see out my contract and I&#39;ll try to do my best from here until the end of the season, and after that we will see what happens with me,&quot; added Aguero, who is City&#39;s all-time leading scorer and netted his 185th goal for the club in Tuesday&#39;s 3-1 win over Watford.

The 29-year-old Argentinian striker had been rumoured to be unhappy at not always being a first-choice starter.

Aguero has been with City since 2011 and memorably scored the goal that clinched the title on the last day of the season in 2012 at the expense of city rivals Manchester United.

He insists he would like to stay at the club but accepted that it was not ultimately his decision.

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More speculation has emerged about Sergio Aguero&#39;s future at Manchester City. 
 
Seems hard to imagine them letting a player of his ability leave the etihad.<a href="https://t.co/iQiMzuNJgQ">pic.twitter.com/iQiMzuNJgQ</a>
&mdash; OLBG Betting Tips (@OLBG) <a href="https://twitter.com/OLBG/status/948519853027155968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&quot;The truth is I&#39;m very happy here but, as always, as I said before, the club has the last word,&quot; said Aguero.

&quot;They&#39;re the only ones who decide because obviously, the club is the one who makes the decisions, they are the ones who say you have to go or have to stay, so I&#39;ll respect whatever they tell me.&quot;

City manager Pep Guardiola appears content for him to stay as long as he wants given what he said in December.

&quot;He is a legend,&quot; said Guardiola.

&quot;He will decide absolutely everything about his life and his future. I&#39;m delighted to have him here.&quot;

There were speculations that Argentine star is unhappy under Guardiola after being dropped for the Manchester derby last month.

He scored his 16th goal of the season in Tuesday&rsquo;s 3-1 win against Watford.

Still, speculation over his future refuses to go away as Manchester City intent on signing Alexis Sanchez.

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Manchester City's Sergio Aguero intends to see out contract at City but speculation over his future continues

Sergio Aguero says he would like to see out his present contract with runaway Premier League leaders Manchester City which runs until 2020. However, he looks set for a long run in the starting line-up with Brazil youngster Gabriel Jesus suffering a knee ligament injury in Sunday's 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace. "I have until 2020, I think," said Aguero regarding his contract. "The truth is that I hope to see out my contract and I'll try to do my best from here until the end of the season, and after that we will see what happens with me," added Aguero, who is City's all-time leading scorer and netted his 185th goal for the club in Tuesday's 3-1 win over Watford. The 29-year-old Argentinian striker had been rumoured to be unhappy at not always being a first-choice starter. Aguero has been with City since 2011 and memorably scored the goal that clinched the title on the last day of the season in 2012 at the expense of city rivals Manchester United. He insists he would like to stay at the club but accepted that it was not ultimately his decision. More speculation has emerged about Sergio Aguero's future at Manchester City. Seems hard to imagine them letting a player of his ability leave the etihad.pic.twitter.com/iQiMzuNJgQ — OLBG Betting Tips (@OLBG) January 3, 2018 × "The truth is I'm very happy here but, as always, as I said before, the club has the last word," said Aguero. "They're the only ones who decide because obviously, the club is the one who makes the decisions, they are the ones who say you have to go or have to stay, so I'll respect whatever they tell me." City manager Pep Guardiola appears content for him to stay as long as he wants given what he said in December. "He is a legend," said Guardiola. "He will decide absolutely everything about his life and his future. I'm delighted to have him here." There were speculations that Argentine star is unhappy under Guardiola after being dropped for the Manchester derby last month. He scored his 16th goal of the season in Tuesday’s 3-1 win against Watford. Still, speculation over his future refuses to go away as Manchester City intent on signing Alexis Sanchez.

Football: Sergio Aguero denies transfer rumours

Manchester City&#39;s Spanish international forward David Silva missed four matches recently because his prematurely-born baby son is fighting for his life, he revealed on Wednesday.

The 31-year-old -- who returned to the runaway Premier League leaders starting line-up for Tuesday&#39;s 3-1 win over Watford -- thanked everyone for their support on his Twitter account.

&quot;Also I want to share with you the birth of my son Mateo, who was born extremely preterm and is fighting day by day with the help of the medical team,&quot; he tweeted.

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COMUNICADO OFICIAL: <a href="https://t.co/8Ooaef92ro">pic.twitter.com/8Ooaef92ro</a>
&mdash; David Silva (@21LVA) <a href="https://twitter.com/21LVA/status/948534711378415616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Manchester City midfielder David Silva reveals that his son has been brought prematurely and is fighting 'day by day' which is why he has been absent from the squad recently

Manchester City's Spanish international forward David Silva missed four matches recently because his prematurely-born baby son is fighting for his life, he revealed on Wednesday. The 31-year-old -- who returned to the runaway Premier League leaders starting line-up for Tuesday's 3-1 win over Watford -- thanked everyone for their support on his Twitter account. "Also I want to share with you the birth of my son Mateo, who was born extremely preterm and is fighting day by day with the help of the medical team," he tweeted. COMUNICADO OFICIAL: pic.twitter.com/8Ooaef92ro — David Silva (@21LVA) January 3, 2018 ×

David Silva explains absence from Manchester City squad

Runaway Premier League leaders Manchester City returned to winning ways with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Watford on Tuesday, showing no signs of letting the festive flurry of fixtures impact their momentum.

City manager Pep Guardiola responded to Sunday&rsquo;s goalless draw at Crystal Palace, which ended their 18-match winning run, by fielding a full-strength side with John Stones and David Silva both returning.

Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who was stretchered off at Palace after a horrific challenge, was fit to start while Sergio Aguero replaced the injured Gabriel Jesus in the centre-forward role.

If that was a statement of intent - it was certainly backed up on the field. It took just 38 seconds for the leaders to get ahead when Silva fed Leroy Sane on the left flank and the German&rsquo;s low cross was turned in at the back post by an unmarked Raheem Sterling.

City looked in the mood to get the business settled early and they should have doubled their lead when Sane, after a clever piece of footwork, cut back to Stones but the defender&rsquo;s shot, while leaning back, flew high over the bar.

It was not long before the second came, however, and again it was a low ball across the face of the goal that proved Watford&rsquo;s undoing. Silva fed De Bruyne on the right and the midfielder&rsquo;s cross was turned into his own net by the sliding Christian Kabasele.

Marco Silva&rsquo;s Watford faced a long night of damage limitation and they had their keeper Heurelho Gomes to thank for tipping a curling De Bruyne free kick against the bar.

The counter-attack was Watford&rsquo;s only likely route to goal and that nearly proved fruitful in the 29th minute when Andre Gray broke clear and burst goalwards but his low shot was well saved by Ederson.

The City keeper did well again to keep out a low drive from Etienne Capoue two minutes before the break but only the most optimistic of Hornets fans would have seen that as a sign of things changing in the second half.

Aguero missed a clearcut chance to make it 3-0 three minutes after the restart, heading well wide when found unmarked 10 metres out by a trademark pinpoint cross from De Bruyne.

It was that combination, however, that put the game well and truly beyond Watford in the 63rd minute with the help of Gomes who fumbled the Belgian&rsquo;s cross to leave Aguero with the simplest of tap-ins.

De Bruyne drove into the side-netting from a tight angle in the 78th minute and was immediately taken off by Guardiola, receiving a richly deserved ovation from the Etihad crowd.

Gray got a consolation for Watford in the 82nd minute slotting home a low cross from Andre Carillo.

Manager Pep Guardiola responded to Sunday?s goalless draw at Crystal Palace, which ended their 18-match winning run, by fielding a full-strength side

Runaway Premier League leaders Manchester City returned to winning ways with a comfortable 3-1 victory over Watford on Tuesday, showing no signs of letting the festive flurry of fixtures impact their momentum. City manager Pep Guardiola responded to Sunday’s goalless draw at Crystal Palace, which ended their 18-match winning run, by fielding a full-strength side with John Stones and David Silva both returning. Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who was stretchered off at Palace after a horrific challenge, was fit to start while Sergio Aguero replaced the injured Gabriel Jesus in the centre-forward role. If that was a statement of intent - it was certainly backed up on the field. It took just 38 seconds for the leaders to get ahead when Silva fed Leroy Sane on the left flank and the German’s low cross was turned in at the back post by an unmarked Raheem Sterling. City looked in the mood to get the business settled early and they should have doubled their lead when Sane, after a clever piece of footwork, cut back to Stones but the defender’s shot, while leaning back, flew high over the bar. It was not long before the second came, however, and again it was a low ball across the face of the goal that proved Watford’s undoing. Silva fed De Bruyne on the right and the midfielder’s cross was turned into his own net by the sliding Christian Kabasele. Marco Silva’s Watford faced a long night of damage limitation and they had their keeper Heurelho Gomes to thank for tipping a curling De Bruyne free kick against the bar. The counter-attack was Watford’s only likely route to goal and that nearly proved fruitful in the 29th minute when Andre Gray broke clear and burst goalwards but his low shot was well saved by Ederson. The City keeper did well again to keep out a low drive from Etienne Capoue two minutes before the break but only the most optimistic of Hornets fans would have seen that as a sign of things changing in the second half. Aguero missed a clearcut chance to make it 3-0 three minutes after the restart, heading well wide when found unmarked 10 metres out by a trademark pinpoint cross from De Bruyne. It was that combination, however, that put the game well and truly beyond Watford in the 63rd minute with the help of Gomes who fumbled the Belgian’s cross to leave Aguero with the simplest of tap-ins. De Bruyne drove into the side-netting from a tight angle in the 78th minute and was immediately taken off by Guardiola, receiving a richly deserved ovation from the Etihad crowd. Gray got a consolation for Watford in the 82nd minute slotting home a low cross from Andre Carillo.

EPL: City back to winning ways with 3-1 victory over Watford

Ederson`s last-gasp penalty heroics saved Manchester City from defeat but a 0-0 stalemate at Crystal Palace on Sunday brought the Premier League leaders` record-breaking 18-match winning run to an end.

Luka Milivojevic was presented with the chance to seal a memorable victory for Roy Hodgson`s relegation-threatened side when Wilfried Zaha was brought down by Raheem Sterling in injury time.

But the Palace midfielder struck his spot-kick too close to Ederson, allowing the City goalkeeper to preserve his side`s 21-game unbeaten start to the league campaign.

City`s failure to score in a league game for the first time since last April meant they fell short in their bid to equal Bayern Munich 19-game winning run of four years ago, the longest in Europe`s five major leagues, set under their current boss Pep Guardiola.

And City`s afternoon was further soured when Kevin De Bruyne was stretchered off immediately after the spot-kick following an ugly challenge by Palace substitute Jason Puncheon.

Guardiola, who also said forward Gabriel Jesus was likely to be out for up to two months after an injury early in the game, called for referees to take firm action.

&quot;Please, referees, they have to protect players,&quot; he said. &quot;We were lucky against Tottenham and against Newcastle. Today we were not lucky.

&quot;Referees have to protect. We know how strong physically it is England but teams miss big players, not just Manchester City. The replay speaks for itself. We have to protect players.&quot;Hodgson claimed before the game there was &quot;no magic formula&quot; to competing with City, insisting his Palace side`s hopes of getting something from the game hinged on working hard and defending well while maintaining an attacking threat.

The manager could be satisfied that during the opening 45 minutes his players stuck to the prescribed plan to the extent that by the half-time break, the frustration among Guardiola`s players was obvious.

There was an early sign the visitors might not be at their best when a breakdown in communication between Eliaquim Mangala and Ederson led to the goalkeeper directing an attempted clearance against his centre-back, presenting Christian Benteke with an opportunity that he could not take.

Both sides were forced into early changes, with Palace captain Scott Dann being stretchered off in the 19th minute and City striker Jesus following shortly afterwards.

The subsequent reshuffle appeared to affect the visitors more, with Palace growing more into the game the longer the half went on.

Sergio Aguero, Jesus`s replacement, struck the post in the 28th minute with a deflected shot from the edge of the penalty area but that proved to be a rare moment of concern for home goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey.

And while Palace were unable to carve out many clear chances at the other end, Wilfried Zaha was a constant threat down the Palace left, frequently getting the better of City right-back Kyle Walker.

An animated conversation between De Bruyne and Leroy Sane confirmed the sense that City were growing increasingly uncomfortable.

Palace found it far harder to be as expansive after the restart, when City finally began to move through the gears.

But Hennessey proved equal to the task, blocking Leroy Sane`s close-range volley at the far post and denying De Bruyne as City struggled to find openings in a well-drilled Palace backline.

And they should have entered the final 14 minutes of the game needing a goal to get back on level terms after Andros Townsend missed the home side`s best chance of the half before Milivojevic was handed his late opportunity to clinch the points.

City`s failure to score in a league game for the first time since last April meant they fell short in their bid to equal Bayern Munich 19-game winning run of four years ago

Ederson`s last-gasp penalty heroics saved Manchester City from defeat but a 0-0 stalemate at Crystal Palace on Sunday brought the Premier League leaders` record-breaking 18-match winning run to an end. Luka Milivojevic was presented with the chance to seal a memorable victory for Roy Hodgson`s relegation-threatened side when Wilfried Zaha was brought down by Raheem Sterling in injury time. But the Palace midfielder struck his spot-kick too close to Ederson, allowing the City goalkeeper to preserve his side`s 21-game unbeaten start to the league campaign. City`s failure to score in a league game for the first time since last April meant they fell short in their bid to equal Bayern Munich 19-game winning run of four years ago, the longest in Europe`s five major leagues, set under their current boss Pep Guardiola. And City`s afternoon was further soured when Kevin De Bruyne was stretchered off immediately after the spot-kick following an ugly challenge by Palace substitute Jason Puncheon. Guardiola, who also said forward Gabriel Jesus was likely to be out for up to two months after an injury early in the game, called for referees to take firm action. "Please, referees, they have to protect players," he said. "We were lucky against Tottenham and against Newcastle. Today we were not lucky. "Referees have to protect. We know how strong physically it is England but teams miss big players, not just Manchester City. The replay speaks for itself. We have to protect players."Hodgson claimed before the game there was "no magic formula" to competing with City, insisting his Palace side`s hopes of getting something from the game hinged on working hard and defending well while maintaining an attacking threat. The manager could be satisfied that during the opening 45 minutes his players stuck to the prescribed plan to the extent that by the half-time break, the frustration among Guardiola`s players was obvious. There was an early sign the visitors might not be at their best when a breakdown in communication between Eliaquim Mangala and Ederson led to the goalkeeper directing an attempted clearance against his centre-back, presenting Christian Benteke with an opportunity that he could not take. Both sides were forced into early changes, with Palace captain Scott Dann being stretchered off in the 19th minute and City striker Jesus following shortly afterwards. The subsequent reshuffle appeared to affect the visitors more, with Palace growing more into the game the longer the half went on. Sergio Aguero, Jesus`s replacement, struck the post in the 28th minute with a deflected shot from the edge of the penalty area but that proved to be a rare moment of concern for home goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey. And while Palace were unable to carve out many clear chances at the other end, Wilfried Zaha was a constant threat down the Palace left, frequently getting the better of City right-back Kyle Walker. An animated conversation between De Bruyne and Leroy Sane confirmed the sense that City were growing increasingly uncomfortable. Palace found it far harder to be as expansive after the restart, when City finally began to move through the gears. But Hennessey proved equal to the task, blocking Leroy Sane`s close-range volley at the far post and denying De Bruyne as City struggled to find openings in a well-drilled Palace backline. And they should have entered the final 14 minutes of the game needing a goal to get back on level terms after Andros Townsend missed the home side`s best chance of the half before Milivojevic was handed his late opportunity to clinch the points.

Football: Man City winning run ends in draw at Crystal Palace

Raheem Sterling says Manchester City are motivated by the pursuit of silverware rather than the promise of breaking more records as the Premier League leaders chase another landmark at Crystal Palace this weekend.

Pep Guardiola&#39;s side have already turned the title race into a lengthy coronation party after winning 18th successive league matches to open up a 15-point lead over second placed Manchester United.

A slew of statistical milestones have littered red-hot City&#39;s incredible run and they can finish 2017 by claiming another notable feat.

Just hours before the New Year&#39;s Eve fireworks begin to light up the night sky&nbsp;on Sunday, unbeaten City will be at Selhurst Park looking for a record-equalling 19th consecutive league victory.

The only club in Europe&#39;s five biggest leagues to have had a winning run that long is Bayern Munich under Guardiola in 2013-14.

But, while the historic sub-plots are a welcome bonus, City winger Sterling insists it is the thought of moving another step closer to the Premier League trophy that inspires his side.

&quot;I don&#39;t think everyone is really too focused on records. The most important thing is the three points,&quot; said Sterling, who scored City&#39;s winner at Newcastle&nbsp;on Wednesday.

&quot;Once you win the game and the stats come up, that&#39;s all well and great, but you can&#39;t be thinking about that.

&quot;We&#39;ve just got to have a single focus. At the end of the day, if it happens, it happens, but we need to go there with the mentality to get the job done.&quot;

United&#39;s failure to keep pace with City has sent Jose Mourinho into a grumpy mood, with the Old Trafford chief blasting his players after their recent draw at Leicester and demanding his employers back his plan for substantial investment in new signings.

A 2-2 home draw with Burnley&nbsp;on Tuesday&nbsp;did little to lift Mourinho&#39;s spirits, but it would have been even worse but for Jesse Lingard&#39;s brace as United recovered from two goals down.

Mourinho&#39;s side are without a win in three matches in all competitions, but Lingard claims their recovery against Burnley proves the spirit is still strong ahead of&nbsp;Saturday&#39;s&nbsp;clash with Southampton.

&quot;If we had played for another five or 10 minutes, we would have won the game,&quot; said.

&quot;We always have that fighting spirit, that never-give-up attitude and we&#39;ll see where it gets us.&quot;

Van Dijk boost

Fourth-placed Liverpool host Leicester in their first match since Reds boss Jurgen Klopp paid a world record &pound;75 million ($100 million) for a defender to land Southampton centre-back Virgil van Dijk.

Although Van Dijk can&#39;t officially join Liverpool until&nbsp;January 1, the Dutch star&#39;s arrival is a significant statement of intent by Klopp, who hopes fixing his leaky defence will help the team&#39;s push for a top-four finish.

Amid criticism of the hefty fee, Klopp was asked what the 26-year-old will add to Liverpool.

&quot;Quality. That&#39;s why we got him. We don&#39;t make the prices, the market does. Liverpool supporters should forget about the price,&quot; he said.

Champions Chelsea, who meet Stoke&nbsp;on Saturday, are a whopping 16 points behind City in third place.

Yet defiant Blues defender Cesar Azpilicueta says they will keep chasing the leaders until it&#39;s impossible to catch them.

&quot;Apart for Manchester City, every team is having problems. We need to fight and to keep pushing,&quot; he said.

&quot;We have another game against Stoke, our last game of the year, and it&#39;s important to keep winning. We must try to go as far as we can.&quot;

New Swansea manager Carlos Carvalhal will take charge of the league&#39;s bottom club for the first time at Watford.

Carvalhal was appointed as successor to the sacked Paul Clement just days after being dismissed by second tier Sheffield&nbsp;Wednesday.

&quot;We felt we needed to get the managerial situation resolved as soon as possible and while the timing is not always perfect, we can look forward to the second half of the campaign with renewed optimism,&quot; Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins said in reply to criticism of Carvalhal&#39;s surprise appointment.

&nbsp;

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Pep Guardiola's side have already turned the title race into a lengthy coronation party after winning 18th successive league matches to open up a 15-point lead over second placed Manchester United

Raheem Sterling says Manchester City are motivated by the pursuit of silverware rather than the promise of breaking more records as the Premier League leaders chase another landmark at Crystal Palace this weekend. Pep Guardiola's side have already turned the title race into a lengthy coronation party after winning 18th successive league matches to open up a 15-point lead over second placed Manchester United. A slew of statistical milestones have littered red-hot City's incredible run and they can finish 2017 by claiming another notable feat. Just hours before the New Year's Eve fireworks begin to light up the night sky on Sunday, unbeaten City will be at Selhurst Park looking for a record-equalling 19th consecutive league victory. The only club in Europe's five biggest leagues to have had a winning run that long is Bayern Munich under Guardiola in 2013-14. But, while the historic sub-plots are a welcome bonus, City winger Sterling insists it is the thought of moving another step closer to the Premier League trophy that inspires his side. "I don't think everyone is really too focused on records. The most important thing is the three points," said Sterling, who scored City's winner at Newcastle on Wednesday. "Once you win the game and the stats come up, that's all well and great, but you can't be thinking about that. "We've just got to have a single focus. At the end of the day, if it happens, it happens, but we need to go there with the mentality to get the job done." United's failure to keep pace with City has sent Jose Mourinho into a grumpy mood, with the Old Trafford chief blasting his players after their recent draw at Leicester and demanding his employers back his plan for substantial investment in new signings. A 2-2 home draw with Burnley on Tuesday did little to lift Mourinho's spirits, but it would have been even worse but for Jesse Lingard's brace as United recovered from two goals down. Mourinho's side are without a win in three matches in all competitions, but Lingard claims their recovery against Burnley proves the spirit is still strong ahead of Saturday's clash with Southampton. "If we had played for another five or 10 minutes, we would have won the game," said. "We always have that fighting spirit, that never-give-up attitude and we'll see where it gets us." Van Dijk boost Fourth-placed Liverpool host Leicester in their first match since Reds boss Jurgen Klopp paid a world record £75 million ($100 million) for a defender to land Southampton centre-back Virgil van Dijk. Although Van Dijk can't officially join Liverpool until January 1, the Dutch star's arrival is a significant statement of intent by Klopp, who hopes fixing his leaky defence will help the team's push for a top-four finish. Amid criticism of the hefty fee, Klopp was asked what the 26-year-old will add to Liverpool. "Quality. That's why we got him. We don't make the prices, the market does. Liverpool supporters should forget about the price," he said. Champions Chelsea, who meet Stoke on Saturday, are a whopping 16 points behind City in third place. Yet defiant Blues defender Cesar Azpilicueta says they will keep chasing the leaders until it's impossible to catch them. "Apart for Manchester City, every team is having problems. We need to fight and to keep pushing," he said. "We have another game against Stoke, our last game of the year, and it's important to keep winning. We must try to go as far as we can." New Swansea manager Carlos Carvalhal will take charge of the league's bottom club for the first time at Watford. Carvalhal was appointed as successor to the sacked Paul Clement just days after being dismissed by second tier Sheffield Wednesday. "We felt we needed to get the managerial situation resolved as soon as possible and while the timing is not always perfect, we can look forward to the second half of the campaign with renewed optimism," Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins said in reply to criticism of Carvalhal's surprise appointment.

City want trophies not records, says Sterling

Manchester City&#39;s relentless assault on English football&#39;s record books continued on Wednesday as a Raheem Sterling goal earned them a 1-0 win at Newcastle United to extend their extraordinary record of successive Premier League wins to 18.

Sterling&#39;s fine 31st-minute finish saw Guardiola&#39;s men improve their unbeaten league sequence this season to 20 games and stretch their yawning gap at the top of the league to 15 points on a night where they dominated but were very wasteful.

Rafa Benitez started with the most negative approach St James&#39; Park can ever have seen from a Newcastle side, allowing City to monopolise proceedings before Sterling finally broke their resistance with his 13th league goal of the season.

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<h5>Rafa Benitez started with the most negative approach St James&#39; Park can ever have seen from a Newcastle side, allowing City to monopolise proceedings before Sterling finally broke their resistance with his 13th league goal of the season</h5>
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City hit the woodwork three times in total -- twice from Sergio Aguero and once from Kevin De Bruyne -- and they nearly paid for their profligacy in front of goal when, in rare Newcastle attacks, Rolando Aarons had a first-half chip cleared off the line and Dwight Gayle headed wide late on.

Despite a slightly sloppy second-half performance, it would have been a travesty if Newcastle, just a point above the relegation zone after their fifth straight home defeat, had been rewarded for an ultra-cautious approach.

City moved on to 58 points out of a possible 60, with their Manchester United neighbours on 43 points and Chelsea on 42.

&quot;We did absolutely everything but it is difficult to play when the other team doesn&#39;t want to play,&quot; Guardiola told BBC Sport in what sounded a harsh but fair assessment of Newcastle&#39;s early passivity.

&quot;Any manager can decide what he wants. I prefer to try to play but I respect a lot what opponents do and we have to try to discover how to attack against them.&quot;

Such is City&#39;s aura now that Newcastle, almost as if Benitez was resigned to their fate from the start, invariably put 10 men behind the ball in the opening half an hour as the visitors sought an opening.

Argentine Aguero volleyed against the post after seven minutes and De Bruyne let Newcastle off with some slack finishing before the South American again struck the post on the half-hour with a right foot shot.

City even made light of the early departure of captain Vincent Kompany, who suffered yet another of his injury woes and had to limp off after 10 minutes.

Refusing to compromise their attacking approach, they simply pushed midfielder Fernandinho back into central defence and brought on striker Gabriel Jesus.

With Newcastle offering nothing, it felt just a matter of time before De Bruyne picked out Sterling brilliantly with a floated through ball which saw the England international ghost in and squeeze it left-footed past Rob Elliot from a narrow angle.

Forced to offer a response, Newcastle responded almost immediately when a fine Aarons&#39; chip brought an excellent headed goalline clearance from Nicolas Otamendi under his own bar but it was just a brief respite as City equalled the English top-flight record of 11 consecutive away league victories.

De Bruyne, with a strange mixture of commanding orchestration and wayward finishing, struck the post with one searing shot but City did appear to become a little complacent as substitute Gayle came close with an 89th minute header that went just wide.

Now, Guardiola is just one win away from equalling the record of 19 league victories in a row that he set with Bayern Munich in 2013-14, the longest winning streak achieved in any of Europe&#39;s top five leagues. 
&nbsp;

A Raheem Sterling goal earned the league leaders a 1-0 win at Newcastle United

Manchester City's relentless assault on English football's record books continued on Wednesday as a Raheem Sterling goal earned them a 1-0 win at Newcastle United to extend their extraordinary record of successive Premier League wins to 18. Sterling's fine 31st-minute finish saw Guardiola's men improve their unbeaten league sequence this season to 20 games and stretch their yawning gap at the top of the league to 15 points on a night where they dominated but were very wasteful. Rafa Benitez started with the most negative approach St James' Park can ever have seen from a Newcastle side, allowing City to monopolise proceedings before Sterling finally broke their resistance with his 13th league goal of the season. Rafa Benitez started with the most negative approach St James' Park can ever have seen from a Newcastle side, allowing City to monopolise proceedings before Sterling finally broke their resistance with his 13th league goal of the season × City hit the woodwork three times in total -- twice from Sergio Aguero and once from Kevin De Bruyne -- and they nearly paid for their profligacy in front of goal when, in rare Newcastle attacks, Rolando Aarons had a first-half chip cleared off the line and Dwight Gayle headed wide late on. Despite a slightly sloppy second-half performance, it would have been a travesty if Newcastle, just a point above the relegation zone after their fifth straight home defeat, had been rewarded for an ultra-cautious approach. City moved on to 58 points out of a possible 60, with their Manchester United neighbours on 43 points and Chelsea on 42. "We did absolutely everything but it is difficult to play when the other team doesn't want to play," Guardiola told BBC Sport in what sounded a harsh but fair assessment of Newcastle's early passivity. "Any manager can decide what he wants. I prefer to try to play but I respect a lot what opponents do and we have to try to discover how to attack against them." Such is City's aura now that Newcastle, almost as if Benitez was resigned to their fate from the start, invariably put 10 men behind the ball in the opening half an hour as the visitors sought an opening. Argentine Aguero volleyed against the post after seven minutes and De Bruyne let Newcastle off with some slack finishing before the South American again struck the post on the half-hour with a right foot shot. City even made light of the early departure of captain Vincent Kompany, who suffered yet another of his injury woes and had to limp off after 10 minutes. Refusing to compromise their attacking approach, they simply pushed midfielder Fernandinho back into central defence and brought on striker Gabriel Jesus. With Newcastle offering nothing, it felt just a matter of time before De Bruyne picked out Sterling brilliantly with a floated through ball which saw the England international ghost in and squeeze it left-footed past Rob Elliot from a narrow angle. Forced to offer a response, Newcastle responded almost immediately when a fine Aarons' chip brought an excellent headed goalline clearance from Nicolas Otamendi under his own bar but it was just a brief respite as City equalled the English top-flight record of 11 consecutive away league victories. De Bruyne, with a strange mixture of commanding orchestration and wayward finishing, struck the post with one searing shot but City did appear to become a little complacent as substitute Gayle came close with an 89th minute header that went just wide. Now, Guardiola is just one win away from equalling the record of 19 league victories in a row that he set with Bayern Munich in 2013-14, the longest winning streak achieved in any of Europe's top five leagues.

EPL: Man City march to 18th straight win

Jurgen Klopp has urged Liverpool to stay motivated to reach their target of a place in next season&#39;s Champions League by the end of the season.

Klopp has acknowledged ahead of Liverpool&#39;s clash with bottom side Swansea at Anfield on Tuesday that a Premier League title challenge is beyond them given they trail leaders Manchester City by 20 points.

But the German believes there is still plenty for the fourth-placed Reds to play for and they should not get complacent just because City are so far ahead.

&quot;We have to qualify for the Champions League. We have to finish as high as possible,&quot; Klopp said.

&quot;It looks like we could be second, third or fourth this year, that&#39;s a fantastic situation. Not the dream but a fantastic situation.&nbsp;

&quot;That&#39;s what we are working on and for this we have to improve in all departments.

&quot;This year, I don&#39;t think that anyone apart from Manchester City and maybe Manchester United are thinking too much about how they can win the league.

&quot;In a very difficult league, performance-wise we are really consistent so far. If we stay consistent and avoid our mistakes, mistakes like in the 3-3 draw with Arsenal, we will win much more games than we lose or draw.

&quot;As it was and so it will be against Swansea, we have to perform first of all and then we have to see how the other team can react.&quot;

Even though Swansea are at the foot of the table, Klopp does not want his players to assume the result will be a foregone conclusion.

&quot;They are under pressure and that&#39;s clear because they fight for the league, 100 per cent, and that will not change before Boxing Day,&quot; Klopp added.

&quot;But we will be ready and we will perform, if possible, like against Arsenal but avoid the mistakes we made.&nbsp;

&quot;I don&#39;t really remember the game from last year, to be honest. I remember that we lost it. But that&#39;s not the plan!&quot;

Step by step 
Klopp confirmed Liverpool will be without captain Jordan Henderson after he limped out of their 3-3 draw with Arsenal last Friday.

Defender Joel Matip could be fit enough to feature after he recently returning to training following a muscle injury while striker Daniel Sturridge has recovered from illness.

Alberto Moreno (ankle) and Nathanial Clyne (back) remain on the sidelines.

Swansea caretaker manager Leon Britton will take charge of his second game following the sacking of Paul Clement last week.

Britton is a modern-day Swansea great with more than 500 appearances to his name, and guided the club to a 1-1 draw in his first match against Crystal Palace.

A match against free-scoring Liverpool at Anfield, however, will present a somewhat more difficult prospect for the South Wales club.

Swansea striker Jordan Ayew admits the draw against Palace, in which he scored, has helped them take at least some confidence into the trip to Merseyside.

&quot;We all have a job to do. I think we responded well,&quot; Ayew said. &quot;We will take it day by day and see what happens in the future.

&quot;We will do our best to get something out of the game against Liverpool. We will build step by step and things will get better. It is important for us to get a good result.&quot;

Swansea will give a fitness test to striker Wilfried Bony (hamstring) and midfielder Leroy Fer (back), who both missed the game against Palace.

Liverpool are currently fourth in the league

Jurgen Klopp has urged Liverpool to stay motivated to reach their target of a place in next season's Champions League by the end of the season. Klopp has acknowledged ahead of Liverpool's clash with bottom side Swansea at Anfield on Tuesday that a Premier League title challenge is beyond them given they trail leaders Manchester City by 20 points. But the German believes there is still plenty for the fourth-placed Reds to play for and they should not get complacent just because City are so far ahead. "We have to qualify for the Champions League. We have to finish as high as possible," Klopp said. "It looks like we could be second, third or fourth this year, that's a fantastic situation. Not the dream but a fantastic situation. "That's what we are working on and for this we have to improve in all departments. "This year, I don't think that anyone apart from Manchester City and maybe Manchester United are thinking too much about how they can win the league. "In a very difficult league, performance-wise we are really consistent so far. If we stay consistent and avoid our mistakes, mistakes like in the 3-3 draw with Arsenal, we will win much more games than we lose or draw. "As it was and so it will be against Swansea, we have to perform first of all and then we have to see how the other team can react." Even though Swansea are at the foot of the table, Klopp does not want his players to assume the result will be a foregone conclusion. "They are under pressure and that's clear because they fight for the league, 100 per cent, and that will not change before Boxing Day," Klopp added. "But we will be ready and we will perform, if possible, like against Arsenal but avoid the mistakes we made. "I don't really remember the game from last year, to be honest. I remember that we lost it. But that's not the plan!" Step by step Klopp confirmed Liverpool will be without captain Jordan Henderson after he limped out of their 3-3 draw with Arsenal last Friday. Defender Joel Matip could be fit enough to feature after he recently returning to training following a muscle injury while striker Daniel Sturridge has recovered from illness. Alberto Moreno (ankle) and Nathanial Clyne (back) remain on the sidelines. Swansea caretaker manager Leon Britton will take charge of his second game following the sacking of Paul Clement last week. Britton is a modern-day Swansea great with more than 500 appearances to his name, and guided the club to a 1-1 draw in his first match against Crystal Palace. A match against free-scoring Liverpool at Anfield, however, will present a somewhat more difficult prospect for the South Wales club. Swansea striker Jordan Ayew admits the draw against Palace, in which he scored, has helped them take at least some confidence into the trip to Merseyside. "We all have a job to do. I think we responded well," Ayew said. "We will take it day by day and see what happens in the future. "We will do our best to get something out of the game against Liverpool. We will build step by step and things will get better. It is important for us to get a good result." Swansea will give a fitness test to striker Wilfried Bony (hamstring) and midfielder Leroy Fer (back), who both missed the game against Palace.

Klopp: Premier League title beyond us, play for Champions League place

Jose Mourinho slammed his Manchester United stars after they conceded a late equaliser in a 2-2 draw against 10-man Leicester that left them 13 points adrift of leaders Manchester City.&nbsp;United was already trailing in City&#39;s wake, but Harry Maguire&#39;s 94th-minute leveler at the King Power Stadium on Saturday was another hammer blow to their title hopes just hours after their rivals had beaten Bournemouth.

Mourinho&#39;s side had missed several superb chances to move 3-1 ahead and effectively kill off Leicester and the United boss was furious with his players&#39; finishing and the sloppy way they allowed Maguire to equalise.&nbsp;&quot;It is as bad as a defeat&quot;, said Mourinho. &quot;Sometimes you take a point and you say &#39;OK&#39; and you accept it as it was hard to get a positive result.&nbsp;

&quot;That is not the case. It is a game to win easily. It is a big frustration as they are easy goals to score and easy goals to kill the game but not just the goals we missed, also some easy way out to counter-attack where we lost the ball quite easily.&nbsp;&quot;On top of that, in the last couple of minutes, we allow the opposition to throw a few balls into the box, with Christian Fuchs&#39; hands and crosses.

&quot;We couldn&#39;t defend the last cross so I think we were punished by our mistakes in both penalty areas.&nbsp;&quot;There was a lack of maturity. I cannot stop the game and give a team talk&quot;, said Mourinho.&nbsp;

&quot;For the last two minutes, the players had to immediately adapt, to read the game, which they didn&#39;t so we had childish decisions in front of goal and bad decisions as it was not just about the goals we missed, or dribbling or hitting the post. &quot;It was not just about missing chances with an open goal, it was also about decisions. Easy decisions to make in easy transitions to counter-attack&quot;.

Childish decisions

Mourinho admitted he does not know whether all of his players will develop the maturity he needs.&nbsp;&quot;Some players they have childish decisions and time helps them to have the maturity and to decide better but some other players stay with childish decisions until the end of their career&quot;, he said.

&quot;You know it depends on what is inside and the way they learn or they don&#39;t learn&quot;.&nbsp;Leicester fought back despite having substitute Daniel Amartey sent off for two yellow cards in the space of five minutes.&nbsp;Foxes manager Claude Puel said: &quot;He took the second yellow card with naivety. Perhaps the first yellow card was a little harsh, but the second he needed to manage better.&nbsp;

&quot;He&#39;s a young player, he came into the game when there was a little pressure, there was intensity, rhythm, it was a difficult to come into the game.&nbsp;&quot;It was a good game for us against a great team. We started well. It was a fantastic first goal after regaining the possession&quot;, said Puel.

&quot;In the second half, we started well also, with quality. We made some fantastic opportunities to score, just after this, we conceded the free-kick. And just after it was a little harsh with the sending off of Amartey.&nbsp;&quot;It was a difficult scenario. We saw a fantastic spirit, the character of my players. They believed until the end&quot;.

'It is as bad as a defeat,' said Mourinho

Jose Mourinho slammed his Manchester United stars after they conceded a late equaliser in a 2-2 draw against 10-man Leicester that left them 13 points adrift of leaders Manchester City. United was already trailing in City's wake, but Harry Maguire's 94th-minute leveler at the King Power Stadium on Saturday was another hammer blow to their title hopes just hours after their rivals had beaten Bournemouth. Mourinho's side had missed several superb chances to move 3-1 ahead and effectively kill off Leicester and the United boss was furious with his players' finishing and the sloppy way they allowed Maguire to equalise. "It is as bad as a defeat", said Mourinho. "Sometimes you take a point and you say 'OK' and you accept it as it was hard to get a positive result. "That is not the case. It is a game to win easily. It is a big frustration as they are easy goals to score and easy goals to kill the game but not just the goals we missed, also some easy way out to counter-attack where we lost the ball quite easily. "On top of that, in the last couple of minutes, we allow the opposition to throw a few balls into the box, with Christian Fuchs' hands and crosses. "We couldn't defend the last cross so I think we were punished by our mistakes in both penalty areas. "There was a lack of maturity. I cannot stop the game and give a team talk", said Mourinho. "For the last two minutes, the players had to immediately adapt, to read the game, which they didn't so we had childish decisions in front of goal and bad decisions as it was not just about the goals we missed, or dribbling or hitting the post. "It was not just about missing chances with an open goal, it was also about decisions. Easy decisions to make in easy transitions to counter-attack". Childish decisions Mourinho admitted he does not know whether all of his players will develop the maturity he needs. "Some players they have childish decisions and time helps them to have the maturity and to decide better but some other players stay with childish decisions until the end of their career", he said. "You know it depends on what is inside and the way they learn or they don't learn". Leicester fought back despite having substitute Daniel Amartey sent off for two yellow cards in the space of five minutes. Foxes manager Claude Puel said: "He took the second yellow card with naivety. Perhaps the first yellow card was a little harsh, but the second he needed to manage better. "He's a young player, he came into the game when there was a little pressure, there was intensity, rhythm, it was a difficult to come into the game. "It was a good game for us against a great team. We started well. It was a fantastic first goal after regaining the possession", said Puel. "In the second half, we started well also, with quality. We made some fantastic opportunities to score, just after this, we conceded the free-kick. And just after it was a little harsh with the sending off of Amartey. "It was a difficult scenario. We saw a fantastic spirit, the character of my players. They believed until the end".

Mourinho lashes United after Leicester draw

Goals by Sergio Aguero, who scored twice, Raheem Sterling and Danilo enabled leaders Manchester City to extend their record-breaking run to 17 successive Premier League wins as they thrashed Bournemouth 4-0 on Saturday.

The run had begun with victory in added time away to the same opposition in August. This one was much more comfortable and dropped Bournemouth into the bottom three.

Aguero set Pep Guardiola&#39;s team on their way in the 27th minute. Goalkeeper Asmir Begovic lost possession with a poor clearance and Aguero met Fernandinho&#39;s pass with a diving header.

Soon after halftime leading scorer Sterling finished a fine move involving David Silva and Aguero, who then headed his second of the afternoon from a cross by substitute Bernardo Silva.

Danilo, another substitute, scored the fourth within three minutes of coming on to leave manager Guardiola satisfied at having overcome defensive opposition again.

&quot;It was so tough because they play five at the back and 10 players behind (the ball),&quot; he said.

&quot;So space was almost impossible to find and we were lucky to score the first goal. The last 20 minutes they pushed up and after that we played a really good game.

&quot;A good performance and we were ready mentally again.

&quot;Now it&#39;s a merry Christmas and thinking about (playing) Newcastle.&quot;

Manchester City thrashed Bournemouth 4-0 on Saturday

Goals by Sergio Aguero, who scored twice, Raheem Sterling and Danilo enabled leaders Manchester City to extend their record-breaking run to 17 successive Premier League wins as they thrashed Bournemouth 4-0 on Saturday. The run had begun with victory in added time away to the same opposition in August. This one was much more comfortable and dropped Bournemouth into the bottom three. Aguero set Pep Guardiola's team on their way in the 27th minute. Goalkeeper Asmir Begovic lost possession with a poor clearance and Aguero met Fernandinho's pass with a diving header. Soon after halftime leading scorer Sterling finished a fine move involving David Silva and Aguero, who then headed his second of the afternoon from a cross by substitute Bernardo Silva. Danilo, another substitute, scored the fourth within three minutes of coming on to leave manager Guardiola satisfied at having overcome defensive opposition again. "It was so tough because they play five at the back and 10 players behind (the ball)," he said. "So space was almost impossible to find and we were lucky to score the first goal. The last 20 minutes they pushed up and after that we played a really good game. "A good performance and we were ready mentally again. "Now it's a merry Christmas and thinking about (playing) Newcastle."

EPL: City make it 17 in a row

Pep Guardiola said Kevin De Bruyne incarnated Manchester City&#39;s future after the Belgian&#39;s sublime display inspired his side to an emphatic 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

De Bruyne smashed in City&#39;s second goal on Saturday and had a hand in their third, scored by Raheem Sterling, who went on to complete a brace as City registered a record-extending 16th successive Premier League win.

De Bruyne&#39;s hurtful passing repeatedly tore holes in the Spurs defence and Guardiola said that ability on the ball, allied to his exemplary work-rate, made him a figurehead for the club&#39;s young players.

&quot;Kevin is one of the most talented players and you see how he runs without the ball,&quot; said the City manager.

&quot;You cannot imagine how good he plays with the ball, but he runs like a player in the Conference (semi-professional) league.

&quot;It&#39;s a good example for the young players, for our academy, for Phil Foden, for Brahim (Diaz). They know how good Kevin De Bruyne is. And when they see how he runs and he fights without the ball, that is the best example.

&quot;He helps us to be a better club, a better institution for the future. Because that is what we want to do. His performance today, I have no words.&quot;

The one-sided win at a misty Etihad Stadium gave City a provisional 14-point lead at the top of the table, ahead of second-place Manchester United&#39;s trip to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday.

Guardiola has matched his best winning run in&nbsp;Barcelona from their all-conquering 2010-11 season and stands three wins short of his own record for Europe&#39;s five major leagues, which he set at Bayern Munich in 2013-14.

&quot;Of course I&#39;m proud,&quot; said Guardiola.

&quot;I don&#39;t want to be humble right now. I&#39;m proud of my staff to achieve that with three teams, every day being there. We work a lot and the players know that.

&quot;And of course that&#39;s happened because I was with three amazing clubs: Barcelona, Bayern Munich and this one. All three clubs supported me, all the decisions we believe in and they provide me with outstanding players.

&quot;Without good players and the club supporting your ideas, it&#39;s impossible to achieve this kind of thing.&quot;

Ilkay Gundogan put City ahead in the 14th minute, ghosting in unmarked to head Leroy Sane&#39;s corner past Hugo Lloris.

After Spurs rallied in the second half, De Bruyne carried the game beyond them, rifling home a left-foot shot in the 70th minute and sparking the move that culminated in Sane teeing up Sterling for a tap-in. 
&nbsp;

"Kevin is one of the most talented players and you see how he runs without the ball," said the City manager.

Pep Guardiola said Kevin De Bruyne incarnated Manchester City's future after the Belgian's sublime display inspired his side to an emphatic 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. De Bruyne smashed in City's second goal on Saturday and had a hand in their third, scored by Raheem Sterling, who went on to complete a brace as City registered a record-extending 16th successive Premier League win. De Bruyne's hurtful passing repeatedly tore holes in the Spurs defence and Guardiola said that ability on the ball, allied to his exemplary work-rate, made him a figurehead for the club's young players. "Kevin is one of the most talented players and you see how he runs without the ball," said the City manager. "You cannot imagine how good he plays with the ball, but he runs like a player in the Conference (semi-professional) league. "It's a good example for the young players, for our academy, for Phil Foden, for Brahim (Diaz). They know how good Kevin De Bruyne is. And when they see how he runs and he fights without the ball, that is the best example. "He helps us to be a better club, a better institution for the future. Because that is what we want to do. His performance today, I have no words." The one-sided win at a misty Etihad Stadium gave City a provisional 14-point lead at the top of the table, ahead of second-place Manchester United's trip to West Bromwich Albion on Sunday. Guardiola has matched his best winning run in Barcelona from their all-conquering 2010-11 season and stands three wins short of his own record for Europe's five major leagues, which he set at Bayern Munich in 2013-14. "Of course I'm proud," said Guardiola. "I don't want to be humble right now. I'm proud of my staff to achieve that with three teams, every day being there. We work a lot and the players know that. "And of course that's happened because I was with three amazing clubs: Barcelona, Bayern Munich and this one. All three clubs supported me, all the decisions we believe in and they provide me with outstanding players. "Without good players and the club supporting your ideas, it's impossible to achieve this kind of thing." Ilkay Gundogan put City ahead in the 14th minute, ghosting in unmarked to head Leroy Sane's corner past Hugo Lloris. After Spurs rallied in the second half, De Bruyne carried the game beyond them, rifling home a left-foot shot in the 70th minute and sparking the move that culminated in Sane teeing up Sterling for a tap-in.

Football: De Bruyne is my Manchester City blueprint, says Guardiola

Premier League champions Chelsea will not underestimate Southampton on Saturday as they aim to keep up the pressure on the sides around them in the top four, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has said.

Chelsea are third in the league, 14 points adrift of leaders Manchester City and three behind second-placed Manchester United after 17 games, and Courtois says the London side must continue winning to either chase down City or at least finish second.

&quot;It`s a tough game, Southampton drew against Arsenal and it`s always difficult against them home or away,&quot; Courtois told the club`s website.

&quot;We have to be careful because these are the games we have to win if we want to stay near the top and try to close the gap on Man City. Obviously, we are far away but we want to keep on pushing and if we can`t catch them, we want to finish second.

&quot;It was very good that we showed from the start we wanted to win against Huddersfield and that`s the mentality we need in every game.&quot;

Chelsea beat promoted Huddersfield Town 3-1 on Tuesday to maintain a four-point gap above Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Burnley with seventh-placed Arsenal a further point behind.

Southampton are 11th in the standings and winless in their last four league games.

Chelsea beat promoted Huddersfield Town 3-1 on Tuesday to maintain a four-point gap

Premier League champions Chelsea will not underestimate Southampton on Saturday as they aim to keep up the pressure on the sides around them in the top four, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has said. Chelsea are third in the league, 14 points adrift of leaders Manchester City and three behind second-placed Manchester United after 17 games, and Courtois says the London side must continue winning to either chase down City or at least finish second. "It`s a tough game, Southampton drew against Arsenal and it`s always difficult against them home or away," Courtois told the club`s website. "We have to be careful because these are the games we have to win if we want to stay near the top and try to close the gap on Man City. Obviously, we are far away but we want to keep on pushing and if we can`t catch them, we want to finish second. "It was very good that we showed from the start we wanted to win against Huddersfield and that`s the mentality we need in every game." Chelsea beat promoted Huddersfield Town 3-1 on Tuesday to maintain a four-point gap above Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Burnley with seventh-placed Arsenal a further point behind. Southampton are 11th in the standings and winless in their last four league games.

Courtois says Chelsea expect tough challenge from Saints

Manchester City set a new top-flight record of 15 consecutive wins as their seemingly unstoppable march towards the Premier League title continued with a 4-0 romp at bottom club Swansea City on Wednesday.

David Silva struck twice for Pep Guardiola&#39;s side as they went past Arsenal&#39;s 14-match winning sequence, although unlike the London club&#39;s, City&#39;s streak has been in a single season.

Manchester United kept up a distant pursuit as they toiled to a 1-0 defeat of Bournemouth at Old Trafford to remain 11 points adrift in second place, Romelu Lukaku&#39;s ninth league goal of the season proving just enough.

Liverpool and Arsenal could only draw 0-0 with struggling West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United respectively, allowing Tottenham Hotspur to move into fourth spot behind Chelsea thanks top a 2-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion as Serge Aurier scored his first goal for the club.

City have 49 points to United&#39;s 38 with champions Chelsea, who won at Huddersfield Town on Tuesday, on 35. Tottenham have 31, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference while Arsenal dropped to seventh with 30 points.

It was an enjoyable night for managers returning to former clubs as Sam Allardyce watched his Everton side win 1-0 at Newcastle United and Claude Puel&#39;s fast-improving Leicester City triumphed 4-1 at Southampton, the club who sacked him at the end of last season despite taking them to the League Cup final.

City hardly broke sweat as they turned their trip to south Wales into a training session despite making four changes to the side that won 2-1 at Manchester United on Sunday.

Silva opened the scoring from Bernardo Silva&#39;s cross and Kevin De Bruyne made it 2-0 with a free kick.

It was all over when the silky Silva played a one-two with Raheem Sterling to make it 3-0 early in the second half with his fourth goal in his last three games.

Sergio Aguero, back in the side with Gabriel Jesus rested, fired past Lukasz Fabianski to complete another masterclass from Guardiola&#39;s City slickers.

City form

While the purists are purring at City&#39;s form, you could only sympathise with Swansea boss Paul Clement who summed up what many of his peers might be feeling.

&quot;At times it was horrible to be on the sideline watching that, seeing my side trying but suffering for long periods,&quot; he said.

&quot;It was hard to watch at times because they were so dominant. One of the best sides I&#39;ve ever come across.&quot;

United looked flat after their chastening defeat against City and were indebted to Lukaku&#39;s powerful header and several good saves by David de Gea against a plucky Bournemouth.

Manager Jose Mourinho, distracted by reports of a fracas after the City defeat in which he was reported to have had milk thrown at him, admitted his side had been low on energy.

&quot;It was difficult match. They had one more day&#39;s rest than us, they were fresher than us, and mentally fresher because a big match takes more from our players,&quot; he said.

&quot;They were difficult opponents and difficult conditions. If we had scored the second it would have been a calm night.&quot;

Liverpool were left to rue a late disallowed goal for Dominic Solanke as they could find no way past West Brom, their second home draw in four days.

&quot;We can do better and we have to do better but on a night like this when you are not at your best you need a bit of luck,&quot; manager Juergen Klopp said.

Shinji Okazaki scored twice for Leicester as they racked up a fourth consecutive win, while Wayne Rooney earned Everton a 1-0 win at Newcastle United whose night ended in depressing fashion with a red card for Jonjo Shelvey.

United kept up a distant pursuit as they toiled to a 1-0 defeat of Bournemouth at Old Trafford to remain 11 points adrift in second place

Manchester City set a new top-flight record of 15 consecutive wins as their seemingly unstoppable march towards the Premier League title continued with a 4-0 romp at bottom club Swansea City on Wednesday. David Silva struck twice for Pep Guardiola's side as they went past Arsenal's 14-match winning sequence, although unlike the London club's, City's streak has been in a single season. Manchester United kept up a distant pursuit as they toiled to a 1-0 defeat of Bournemouth at Old Trafford to remain 11 points adrift in second place, Romelu Lukaku's ninth league goal of the season proving just enough. Liverpool and Arsenal could only draw 0-0 with struggling West Bromwich Albion and West Ham United respectively, allowing Tottenham Hotspur to move into fourth spot behind Chelsea thanks top a 2-0 win over Brighton and Hove Albion as Serge Aurier scored his first goal for the club. City have 49 points to United's 38 with champions Chelsea, who won at Huddersfield Town on Tuesday, on 35. Tottenham have 31, ahead of Liverpool on goal difference while Arsenal dropped to seventh with 30 points. It was an enjoyable night for managers returning to former clubs as Sam Allardyce watched his Everton side win 1-0 at Newcastle United and Claude Puel's fast-improving Leicester City triumphed 4-1 at Southampton, the club who sacked him at the end of last season despite taking them to the League Cup final. City hardly broke sweat as they turned their trip to south Wales into a training session despite making four changes to the side that won 2-1 at Manchester United on Sunday. Silva opened the scoring from Bernardo Silva's cross and Kevin De Bruyne made it 2-0 with a free kick. It was all over when the silky Silva played a one-two with Raheem Sterling to make it 3-0 early in the second half with his fourth goal in his last three games. Sergio Aguero, back in the side with Gabriel Jesus rested, fired past Lukasz Fabianski to complete another masterclass from Guardiola's City slickers. City form While the purists are purring at City's form, you could only sympathise with Swansea boss Paul Clement who summed up what many of his peers might be feeling. "At times it was horrible to be on the sideline watching that, seeing my side trying but suffering for long periods," he said. "It was hard to watch at times because they were so dominant. One of the best sides I've ever come across." United looked flat after their chastening defeat against City and were indebted to Lukaku's powerful header and several good saves by David de Gea against a plucky Bournemouth. Manager Jose Mourinho, distracted by reports of a fracas after the City defeat in which he was reported to have had milk thrown at him, admitted his side had been low on energy. "It was difficult match. They had one more day's rest than us, they were fresher than us, and mentally fresher because a big match takes more from our players," he said. "They were difficult opponents and difficult conditions. If we had scored the second it would have been a calm night." Liverpool were left to rue a late disallowed goal for Dominic Solanke as they could find no way past West Brom, their second home draw in four days. "We can do better and we have to do better but on a night like this when you are not at your best you need a bit of luck," manager Juergen Klopp said. Shinji Okazaki scored twice for Leicester as they racked up a fourth consecutive win, while Wayne Rooney earned Everton a 1-0 win at Newcastle United whose night ended in depressing fashion with a red card for Jonjo Shelvey.

Unstoppable City break record, United edge out Bournemouth

Antonio Conte says Chelsea are battling to secure their Champions League future and warned of a &quot;bad surprise&quot; after weekend results left them 14 points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City.

After a fourth loss in 16 games against West Ham on Saturday, the Chelsea boss thinks a title challenge is now all but over and spoke of a revised target ahead of Tuesday&#39;s Premier League clash at Huddersfield.

&quot;I like to win,&quot; said Conte. &quot;When we lose I&#39;m not happy. In 16 games we lost four games. My experience tells (me) it&#39;s impossible to win the title.&quot;

&quot;Now we must be focused in the league to go game by game, to do our best. This league is not simple. We have to fight to find a place in the Champions League.&quot;

But securing a Champions League berth will not be easy, with six big Premier League clubs all chasing four spots.

Conte&#39;s focus is on the immediate future and not the Champions League last-16 tie with Barcelona.

He has continually bemoaned a lack of transfer activity last summer, when he watched rivals City and Manchester United strengthen their squads.

But the Italian is seeking an immediate response and is not relying on new recruits in January&#39;s winter transfer window to improve Chelsea&#39;s fortunes.

Midfielder Danny Drinkwater missed the West Ham loss through illness, while defender David Luiz is being monitored over his knee injury.

Conte is likely to make changes for the trip to Huddersfield. Midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko was substituted at half-time at the London Stadium and striker Alvaro Morata was replaced 10 minutes into the second half and both could be in need of a rest.

And Conte, who repeated his Chelsea side are rebuilding after the departures of the likes of John Terry and Frank Lampard in recent seasons, says it is important the summer arrivals are given time to bed in.

Chelsea are currently third in the league, 14 points behind leaders Manchester City

Antonio Conte says Chelsea are battling to secure their Champions League future and warned of a "bad surprise" after weekend results left them 14 points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City. After a fourth loss in 16 games against West Ham on Saturday, the Chelsea boss thinks a title challenge is now all but over and spoke of a revised target ahead of Tuesday's Premier League clash at Huddersfield. "I like to win," said Conte. "When we lose I'm not happy. In 16 games we lost four games. My experience tells (me) it's impossible to win the title." "Now we must be focused in the league to go game by game, to do our best. This league is not simple. We have to fight to find a place in the Champions League." But securing a Champions League berth will not be easy, with six big Premier League clubs all chasing four spots. Conte's focus is on the immediate future and not the Champions League last-16 tie with Barcelona. He has continually bemoaned a lack of transfer activity last summer, when he watched rivals City and Manchester United strengthen their squads. But the Italian is seeking an immediate response and is not relying on new recruits in January's winter transfer window to improve Chelsea's fortunes. Midfielder Danny Drinkwater missed the West Ham loss through illness, while defender David Luiz is being monitored over his knee injury. Conte is likely to make changes for the trip to Huddersfield. Midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko was substituted at half-time at the London Stadium and striker Alvaro Morata was replaced 10 minutes into the second half and both could be in need of a rest. And Conte, who repeated his Chelsea side are rebuilding after the departures of the likes of John Terry and Frank Lampard in recent seasons, says it is important the summer arrivals are given time to bed in.

Chelsea battling for Champions League future: Conte

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola&#39;s commitment to possession football is well established but ahead of Sunday&#39;s derby clash with Manchester United, the former Barcelona coach revealed he had once doubted his philosophy - but only for 48 hours.

The Spaniard&#39;s zeal for passing and possession with intelligent use of space is almost ideological but he said that early in his career he had questioned if it was the right way.

Guardiola began his coaching career in 2007 with Barcelona&#39;s B team, who played in the lower divisions of the Spanish league and it was there that his commitment to &#39;total football&#39; was tested.

&quot;Yes I had doubts a little bit in the beginning,&quot; he told reporters.

&quot;I remember the first three games, I won, I draw and I lost, we played in the fourth division on artificial pitches, and they were so small. On the Monday I thought I have to change it because we cannot play (on those pitches),&quot; he said.

&quot;Arrived Tuesday and I said we have to change because the pitch is so small. But arrived Wednesday and I said &lsquo;no, I am not going to change&rsquo; because the alternative to playing the way I believe didn&rsquo;t convince me,&quot; said Guardiola.

The decision to stick by his principles paid off for the Spaniard.

&quot;It was so good because at the end of the season, we were champions and promoted and at that moment I said - if we were able to win quite good and play quite good football, if you can do that on small pitch, artificial pitch, then I can do that at a higher level with better pitches, better players,&quot; he said with a grin.

Guardiola&#39;s almost dogmatic belief in the &quot;right way&quot; of playing was questioned last season as City struggled to adjust to the former Barca and Bayern Munich coach&#39;s demands.

Early days

But with City heading into the derby unbeaten in the Premier League and with an eight-point lead over United, Guardiola was comfortable looking back on his early coaching days.

&quot;That was an important moment...I was 37 years old, never trained big players and I had to prove myself. That showed me. But at the end it depends on results.

&quot;I said many times &ndash; the manager has to do what they believe, that is the most important thing. If someone comes to me for advice or comments, always I say, do what you believe. That is the only thing that works,&quot; he said.

The Catalan said sticking to his guns was not just a wise move in terms of tactics but is an honest and authentic approach.

&quot;People who have success in many other aspects in life it is because they believe 100 percent what they do. When it doesn&rsquo;t work &ndash; of course you have to change, but always with something from inside,&quot; he said, while conceding there are multiple tactical approaches that can work in football.

&quot;Teams (have) success when the manager is convinced to do (things) 100 percent. In all the history, the 1940&rsquo;s, 50&rsquo;s, 60&rsquo;s 70&rsquo;s, (teams won) titles in many, many different ways, there is not one (pattern). That is why football is magnificent because you face teams with long balls, more defensive, more attacking, different ways and that is why it is top.&quot;

The doubt did not last very long -- only 48 hours

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's commitment to possession football is well established but ahead of Sunday's derby clash with Manchester United, the former Barcelona coach revealed he had once doubted his philosophy - but only for 48 hours. The Spaniard's zeal for passing and possession with intelligent use of space is almost ideological but he said that early in his career he had questioned if it was the right way. Guardiola began his coaching career in 2007 with Barcelona's B team, who played in the lower divisions of the Spanish league and it was there that his commitment to 'total football' was tested. "Yes I had doubts a little bit in the beginning," he told reporters. "I remember the first three games, I won, I draw and I lost, we played in the fourth division on artificial pitches, and they were so small. On the Monday I thought I have to change it because we cannot play (on those pitches)," he said. "Arrived Tuesday and I said we have to change because the pitch is so small. But arrived Wednesday and I said ‘no, I am not going to change’ because the alternative to playing the way I believe didn’t convince me," said Guardiola. The decision to stick by his principles paid off for the Spaniard. "It was so good because at the end of the season, we were champions and promoted and at that moment I said - if we were able to win quite good and play quite good football, if you can do that on small pitch, artificial pitch, then I can do that at a higher level with better pitches, better players," he said with a grin. Guardiola's almost dogmatic belief in the "right way" of playing was questioned last season as City struggled to adjust to the former Barca and Bayern Munich coach's demands. Early days But with City heading into the derby unbeaten in the Premier League and with an eight-point lead over United, Guardiola was comfortable looking back on his early coaching days. "That was an important moment...I was 37 years old, never trained big players and I had to prove myself. That showed me. But at the end it depends on results. "I said many times – the manager has to do what they believe, that is the most important thing. If someone comes to me for advice or comments, always I say, do what you believe. That is the only thing that works," he said. The Catalan said sticking to his guns was not just a wise move in terms of tactics but is an honest and authentic approach. "People who have success in many other aspects in life it is because they believe 100 percent what they do. When it doesn’t work – of course you have to change, but always with something from inside," he said, while conceding there are multiple tactical approaches that can work in football. "Teams (have) success when the manager is convinced to do (things) 100 percent. In all the history, the 1940’s, 50’s, 60’s 70’s, (teams won) titles in many, many different ways, there is not one (pattern). That is why football is magnificent because you face teams with long balls, more defensive, more attacking, different ways and that is why it is top."

Before Manchester derby, Guardiola says he once doubted his philosophy

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday continued his tirade against suspended Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar while questioning his meeting with the Pakistan High Commissioner.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/1st-odi-sri-lanka-beat-india-by-7-wickets-26373">1st ODI: Sri Lanka beat India by 7 wickets</a>

Sri Lanka beat India by seven wickets in the first ODI.&nbsp;

The Sri Lankans took just 20.4 overs to get to 114, trotting past the Indian total of 112.&nbsp;

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An Indian student from Hyderabad was shot in Chicago in the United States on Saturday.

The student, who is being treated in hospital, is gravely injured.

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An actress has alleged molestation by a man sitting behind her on a Delhi-Mumbai flight. The man allegedly touched her neck and her back repeatedly with his feet.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/football/before-manchester-derby-guardiola-says-he-once-doubted-his-philosophy-26376">Before Manchester derby, Guardiola says he once doubted his philosophy</a>

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola&#39;s commitment to possession football is well established but ahead of Sunday&#39;s derby clash with Manchester United, the former Barcelona coach revealed he had once doubted his philosophy - but only for 48 hours.

Why did Congress leaders meet in secret with Pakistanis? PM Modi in Gujarat Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday continued his tirade against suspended Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar while questioning his meeting with the Pakistan High Commissioner. 1st ODI: Sri Lanka beat India by 7 wickets Sri Lanka beat India by seven wickets in the first ODI. The Sri Lankans took just 20.4 overs to get to 114, trotting past the Indian total of 112. Indian student from Hyderabad shot in Chicago An Indian student from Hyderabad was shot in Chicago in the United States on Saturday. The student, who is being treated in hospital, is gravely injured. Actress alleges molestation on Delhi-Mumbai flight An actress has alleged molestation by a man sitting behind her on a Delhi-Mumbai flight. The man allegedly touched her neck and her back repeatedly with his feet. Before Manchester derby, Guardiola says he once doubted his philosophy Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's commitment to possession football is well established but ahead of Sunday's derby clash with Manchester United, the former Barcelona coach revealed he had once doubted his philosophy - but only for 48 hours.

WION evening news brief, December 10, 2017

Chelsea must beat West Ham United in the Premier League on Saturday to capitalise on points dropped by rivals in Sunday&#39;s Manchester derby, defender Cesar Azpilicueta said.

Champions Chelsea, who are 11 points behind leaders Manchester City, could go level with second-placed Manchester United with a win at West Ham&#39;s London Stadium in the lunchtime kickoff.

&quot;The two (Manchester) teams can&#39;t both take three points, so every time you get an opportunity to get close, you have to take it,&quot; Azpilicueta told Sky Sports.

&quot;We have to be intelligent to look at ourselves and then we&#39;ll see how the opponents will react.&quot;

After a sloppy start to the season, Antonio Conte&#39;s Chelsea have collected six wins in last seven league games, with their only dropped points coming against Liverpool in a 1-1 draw at Anfield last month.

The festive fixture list looks a good chance for Chelsea to collect a healthy points haul as they are set to face opponents outside the top six in their next six league matches.

West Ham are second from bottom and have not won in their last eight league games.

&quot;We have to go game by game in this busy period in December - every three days you are fighting for a big three points. We have to look at ourselves,&quot; Azpilicueta added.

&quot;We will then see where we are in the final weeks of the season, where we could fight for it.&quot;

Chelsea must beat West Ham United in the Premier League on Saturday to capitalise on points dropped by rivals in Sunday's Manchester derby, defender Cesar Azpilicueta said. Champions Chelsea, who are 11 points behind leaders Manchester City, could go level with second-placed Manchester United with a win at West Ham's London Stadium in the lunchtime kickoff. "The two (Manchester) teams can't both take three points, so every time you get an opportunity to get close, you have to take it," Azpilicueta told Sky Sports. "We have to be intelligent to look at ourselves and then we'll see how the opponents will react." After a sloppy start to the season, Antonio Conte's Chelsea have collected six wins in last seven league games, with their only dropped points coming against Liverpool in a 1-1 draw at Anfield last month. The festive fixture list looks a good chance for Chelsea to collect a healthy points haul as they are set to face opponents outside the top six in their next six league matches. West Ham are second from bottom and have not won in their last eight league games. "We have to go game by game in this busy period in December - every three days you are fighting for a big three points. We have to look at ourselves," Azpilicueta added. "We will then see where we are in the final weeks of the season, where we could fight for it."

EPL: Chelsea ready to exploit dropped points in Manchester derby, says Azpilicueta

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte said his side were no longer in the Premier League title race after they lost 1-0 to West Ham United on Saturday, leaving the champions 11 points adrift of runaway leaders Manchester City who play on Sunday.

Marko Arnautovic scored his first goal since he joined West Ham in July after swapping passes with Manuel Lanzini on the edge of the Chelsea penalty area and curling a low shot beyond Thibaut Courtois in the sixth minute of the London derby.

Conte brought on the attack-minded Pedro, Victor Moses and Willian as second-half substitutes but Chelsea failed to break down a West Ham defence that looks much sturdier under new manager David Moyes.

&quot;To lose four games in 16 games, it means you are not in the title race,&quot; Conte said. &quot;My experience of this is if you want to stay in the race for the title, in the first part of the season you can lose once or twice.&quot;

Particularly galling for Conte was the fact that three of the four defeats have come against clubs which would normally be considered relatively easy opposition for Chelsea -- Burnley on the opening day of the season, Crystal Palace and now West Ham.

Chelsea also lost at home to Manchester City, who visit Manchester United on Sunday.

The champions were left to rue some poor finishing against West Ham in the closing stages as Alvaro Morata blazed wide when he finally found some space and Eden Hazard wasted a chance moments later.

Chelsea struggled for much of the match to find a way through a West Ham defence that did not concede a goal for the first time since September.

West Ham manager Moyes praised his side for a &quot;completely disciplined, organised performance&quot; which had revolved around giving Chelsea little room on the ball and catching them on the break through Arnautovic and Michail Antonio.

&quot;The game plan we set up worked, everything we went about we knew how to engage, and we were very close at Manchester City as well,&quot; he said, referring to last Sunday&#39;s 2-1 defeat to the leaders.

Despite the improvement since Moyes replaced Slaven Bilic as coach in November, West Ham remains in the relegation zone.

Chelsea&#39;s Conte said his players looked tired after a mid-week draw in the Champions League with Atletico Madrid and he again hinted at his frustration that his squad of players were not strong enough to challenge for domestic and European honours this season.

The Italian reportedly disagreed with the club&#39;s top officials in the close season about signings for this campaign.

&quot;I think it is better to talk to people in the club and then give my opinion,&quot; he said when asked if he wanted to sign more players in the January transfer window.

Conte added: &quot;The last decision was with the club. I can give my opinion but the decision is of the club.&quot;

Chelsea coach Antonio Conte said his side were no longer in the Premier League title race after they lost 1-0 to West Ham United on Saturday, leaving the champions 11 points adrift of runaway leaders Manchester City who play on Sunday. Marko Arnautovic scored his first goal since he joined West Ham in July after swapping passes with Manuel Lanzini on the edge of the Chelsea penalty area and curling a low shot beyond Thibaut Courtois in the sixth minute of the London derby. Conte brought on the attack-minded Pedro, Victor Moses and Willian as second-half substitutes but Chelsea failed to break down a West Ham defence that looks much sturdier under new manager David Moyes. "To lose four games in 16 games, it means you are not in the title race," Conte said. "My experience of this is if you want to stay in the race for the title, in the first part of the season you can lose once or twice." Particularly galling for Conte was the fact that three of the four defeats have come against clubs which would normally be considered relatively easy opposition for Chelsea -- Burnley on the opening day of the season, Crystal Palace and now West Ham. Chelsea also lost at home to Manchester City, who visit Manchester United on Sunday. The champions were left to rue some poor finishing against West Ham in the closing stages as Alvaro Morata blazed wide when he finally found some space and Eden Hazard wasted a chance moments later. Chelsea struggled for much of the match to find a way through a West Ham defence that did not concede a goal for the first time since September. West Ham manager Moyes praised his side for a "completely disciplined, organised performance" which had revolved around giving Chelsea little room on the ball and catching them on the break through Arnautovic and Michail Antonio. "The game plan we set up worked, everything we went about we knew how to engage, and we were very close at Manchester City as well," he said, referring to last Sunday's 2-1 defeat to the leaders. Despite the improvement since Moyes replaced Slaven Bilic as coach in November, West Ham remains in the relegation zone. Chelsea's Conte said his players looked tired after a mid-week draw in the Champions League with Atletico Madrid and he again hinted at his frustration that his squad of players were not strong enough to challenge for domestic and European honours this season. The Italian reportedly disagreed with the club's top officials in the close season about signings for this campaign. "I think it is better to talk to people in the club and then give my opinion," he said when asked if he wanted to sign more players in the January transfer window. Conte added: "The last decision was with the club. I can give my opinion but the decision is of the club."

EPL: Conte says Chelsea no longer in title race after West Ham defeat

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