Says YAYA TOURE

YAYA TOURE has taunted Manchester United and told them they are no longer top dogs in their own city – let alone English football.

Toure was left amused when United and their fans celebrated securing a goalless draw in Thursday night’s derby at the Etihad Stadium.

The result leaves Manchester City on course to finish above United in the table for the fifth time in the last six seasons.

Toure reckons Pep Guardiola’s men are now the No.1 team in Manchester and he said: “It is a big change because in the past United were always able to dominate.

Stronger

“They were always able to control and win games, and seeing the fans celebrating like that it shows that City have come close.

“Of course, the history and achievements of United is much stronger – but we are coming.

“They know now we are difficult to play and they tried to do their best to defend and use the counter-attack. To be honest we played well, but when you don’t win it is difficult to take.

“It should have been an easy three points. I have a lot of respect for United but if you see the two sides, the better one was the blue one.

“Of course, all the time we finish above them in the season and it shows City are doing very well.” Toure admits United ® are an interesting project under Jose Mourinho but has told them that Guardiola’s side – who take on Middlesbrough tomorrow – will be even stronger next season.

He added: “United are building something very interesting and we have to be aware of that.

“But I think City are going to be much, much stronger as well. We need to work harder on our finishing.”

City hitman Sergio Aguero will start at the Riverside tomorrow but admits the arrival of Gabriel Jesus has left his future in serious doubt.

Aguero, 28, signed a new long-term City deal earlier this season but speculation is growing that the 30-goal star will still leave the club this summer.

Jesus is now fit after a broken foot and Aguero said: “Of course he’s a very good young player, which is why he’s at Manchester City.

‘‘I know there will come a time when I have to step aside.

“Other young strikers like Gabriel Jesus will be brought in.

“When you reach a certain age the youngsters start putting pressure on you and you have to be even better.

“I’m happy he’s back now and that means I’ll have to be much more focused and alert when I play.

“If I have to start on the bench once again, then I’ll have to accept it. I just want to play and give my all until the end of the season.”