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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
David McDonnell

John Stones reveals Pep Guardiola "demands" which keep Man City stars "on toes"

John Stones says Pep Guardiola's refusal to be satisfied is keeping Manchester City on course for a fourth title in five years.

City made it 12 Premier League wins in a row with Saturday's 1-0 victory over Chelsea, with Guardiola's side currently holding an 11-point lead over nearest rivals Liverpool.

Defender Stones paid tribute to Guardiola, claiming the City manager's constant demand for more from his players is the reason why the Blues are so far ahead of the chasing pack this season.

“The manager is the type to always say stuff and keep us on our toes, and that's why he's always demanding more and the best from us,” said Stones.

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Man City are 11 points clear at the top of the Premier League (Matt McNulty - Manchester City/Manchester City FC via Getty Images)

“As players, we know what position we're in and I think we have such a humble squad, knowing that we can't get ahead of ourselves or stop doing the basics right.

“It's so vital to have that humility when we're playing against big teams, to show them respect, but go and show them what we can do and what we do week-in, week-out.

“I think that is why we've been so successful over the years in so many competitions, because we have that drive and humbleness to show our opponents that respect.

“But in the back of our minds the manager is always demanding it and we have to go out there and prove ourselves week-in, week-out.”

Stones said the key to City's relentless winning run in the league was down to staying in the moment and Guardiola ensuring his players do not look too far ahead.

“Just taking each game as it comes and not getting ahead of ourselves,” said Stones.

“Fighting for every three points we can get and holding ourselves to a high standard and keep demanding more from each other.

“Everyone plays such a vital part in our team, every single player pulls their weight. I think that's why we're in the position that we're in now.”

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