MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - Manchester City's surprise run of three defeats in four games, the latest in Wednesday's 2-1 defeat at Leicester City, has been widely attributed to one simple cause -- the absence of defensive midfielder Fernandinho. Yet while the Brazilian's injury has clearly dented their Premier League title defence, given the absence of any effective replacement to shield their defence, City's woes run deeper than the loss of just one individual, however influential. They are now a point behind Spurs and seven behind top side Liverpool, who visit the Etihad on January 3. David Silva missed City's last five games before returning at Leicester and his importance to the team's trademark style was certainly highlighted in the recent losses. Good results are miracles for the mind and I have to help the players come back, change something and try to win again."

Source: The Star December 27, 2018 14:03 UTC