City ‘miles better than leaders’

FABIAN DELPH claimed Manchester City were “a country mile” better than Chelsea despite the 2-1 defeat at Stamford Bridge that ended their Premier League title hopes.

The midfielder insists the 14-point gap between the two clubs does not reflect the quality of some of City’s football this season and believes that, after a season of adapting to boss Pep Guardiola’s methods, City will offer a far stronger title next season.

“We were the better team by far – by a country mile,” said Delph. “But goals win games and we have not managed to score more than them.

“The 14-point gap isn’t a fair reflection of how we’ve played.

“Because of injuries, I’ve pretty much not been there this season but I’ve watched the games and even the ones challenge we’ve lost we’ve been the better team.

“We can hold our heads high after Wednesday’s performance. We’ve gone through the first year with this manager and learnt a lot.

“So hopefully the boys can pick themselves up, go through the rest of the season unbeaten, win the FA Cup, finish in the top four and come back ready to go again.”

After his two injuryplagued years since he moved from Aston Villa for £8million, Delph’s future is uncertain, along with that of several other City players. But despite the Chelsea game being only his fourth start of the season, Delph wants to be part of Guardiola’s future plans.

“I’m working with the best management team in the world and the best players in the world,” he added. “We’ve got great chemistry, a lot of the boys are very close, and I’d love to be a part of that.”