Manchester City close in on title

David Silva struck twice as Manchester City took another stride towards their seemingly inevitable coronation as Premier League champions with a 2-0 victory at Stoke.

Silva, pictured, found the net early in each half as Pep Guardiola’s men enjoyed a comfortable night at the bet365 Stadium to re-establish a 16-point lead at the top of the table.

The result leaves City needing only a maximum of three wins from eight remaining games to take the title, but two would suffice if one of them comes against second-placed Manchester United.

There is a possibility City could complete the job in the derby against rivals United on April 7 if they beat Everton in their next game on March 31.

City were without top scorer Sergio Aguero but barely needed to get out of second gear against the relegation-threatened Potters.

City broke through within 10 minutes when Gabriel Jesus released the fit-again Raheem Sterling down the right. Sterling picked out Silva in front of goal and the Spaniard flicked home.

Five minutes into the second half Silva drove City forward, found Jesus on the edge of the box, then watched the bouncing return pass to fire home as Jack Butland rushed out to meet him.