Silva: United will never give up on title

DAVID SILVA believes Manchester City will never shake off neighbours United in their pursuit of the title.

City have lost just once in the league this season and scored 50 goals in 16 games.

But United remain just two points behind despite an injury crisis and question marks over their squad strength and form.

Now Spanish star Silva insists City must not slip up again as they did at Stamford Bridge last week — or the Red Devils will catch them.

Silva said: "We are aware that Manchester United are going to be pushing us all the way but we have to focus on ourselves.

"You might say United have been disappointing but they are right there on our heels and you can't knock that.

"We know they are going to be right behind us so we have to make sure there are no slip-ups and try to win every game.

"We have to keep playing at the same level as we have been. To keep the gap as it is we have to keep winning our games."

City came through a huge test of character on Sunday before beating Arsenal 1-0 at the Etihad.

That victory came after they had gone out of the Champions League and then lost at Chelsea.

Silva, who scored the winner against the Gunners, said: "That was a must-win game. We needed a confidence-boosting win after the defeat at Chelsea and I think this will lift us."

It was a great way for manager Roberto Mancini to celebrate exactly two years in charge yesterday as he woke up with City still top of the table.

Mancini has transformed the team into the most formidable in the Premier League.

Silva added: "I think Roberto is doing a great job. He got us into the Champions League for this season and the fact we are top speaks for itself.

"We also won the FA Cup last year and it would be nice to repeat that — but the Premier League title is the big target."

Mancini also has City playing with a style that makes them the most attractive team in the land.

Spanish playmaker Silva said: "We are playing some good football and let us hope the manager is repaid for this style with the title at the end of the season. I am really enjoying my football here."

There will be no let-up in Mancini's approach as he continues to push his expensively-assembled squad to the limit in the quest for that first title since 1968.

Silva added: "You have to be demanding and demand the best when you have a squad of top players like this. You have to push them to the limit and demand as much as you can."

City's success this season is the perfect answer to those who question the spirit within their camp.

Photographs of training ground bust-ups have been a regular occurrence under Mancini.

Silva said: "I don't get involved because I am very cool-headed and calm.

"Everyone is going at it 100 per cent in training and stuff can happen.

"But we are very united and there is a great team spirit out on the field."