‘Frightening’ Man City make statement

Phil Foden issued a warning to Manchester City’s title rivals after the champions’ “frightening” attack inspired a vital 4-0 demolition of Brighton.

Pep Guardiola’s side could not afford to slip up at the Amex Stadium on Thursday as they try to overhaul Arsenal in the title race.

And City rose to the challenge as Kevin De Bruyne’s header put them in front before Foden netted twice in the first half.

Julian Alvarez added the fourth after the break to end his goal drought as second placed City climbed within one point of Arsenal.

City have a game in hand over both Arsenal and third placed Liverpool, who are two points adrift of Guardiola’s men after their damaging loss at Everton on Wednesday.

The Etihad Stadium club will be champions yet again if they win their last five games, starting at Nottingham Forest on Sunday.

“In the first half it was frightening the way we attacked,” said Foden, while De Bruyne added: “I trust my team obviously, all respect to Arsenal and Liverpool because they are amazing.”

Arsenal must win at bitter rivals Tottenham for a second consecutive season to keep City at bay, while Liverpool take their spluttering challenge to West Ham.

© Agence France-Presse

Photo: twitter @row_lyne