'I'M PROTECTED BY MY HELPERS ON CITY STAFF'

PEP GUARDIOLA believes his Manchester City side are “close” to their best as they aim to chase down Premier Leaque leaders Arsenal.

- BY IAN PARKER

Last week's 1-0 loss away to Aston Villa ended a nine-game unbeaten run in all competitions. City host Bournemouth this afternoon and have been playing catch-up since losing back-to-back games to Tottenham and Brighton in August.

But manager Guardiola insists he retains the optimism he had about his team during the summer. The Catalan admitted: “Still we are not at our best, but we are close.

“I said a month ago, that I had the smell that these words would be completely devastating if you don't get results.