Toure determined to silence critics

Kolo Toure believes everyone is waiting for Manchester City to fail, but insists the team remain determined to silence the critics.

City produced a composed collective display to beat bottom club West Ham 3–1 at Upton Park which moved them level on points with leaders Arsenal.

But the performance was overshadowed by the news that star striker Carlos Tevez had handed in a written transfer request.

Toure, who captained the side on Saturday, said: "When you feel the pressure you can offer your best.”

But he knows City has several tough games ahead.

“The Christmas period is the most difficult of the season. We just want to focus really well at this time and try to get the most points that we can.”

City manager Roberto Mancini made a swift exit from Upton Park to travel to Italy to visit his father, who had been ill during the summer.

But assistant boss Brian Kidd maintained there was no substance to reports of deep–rooted dressing room unrest.