Jones hopes to see City falter

PHIL Jones believes it is time to crank up the pressure on Manchester City.

The Blues are licking their wounds after Tuesday night’s defeat to Napoli left them on the brink of a Champions League exit. Now they have to raise their spirits for a tough Premier League encounter with Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

Twenty–four hours earlier, Manchester United will have the opportunity to close the gap with City to two points by beating Newcastle at Old Trafford. And, while Jones is sure the Red Devils will be in the title shake–up come what may, the 19–year–old defender recognises this would be a good time to apply some heat.

“City have done fantastically this season,” Jones said. “I am not taking anything away from them, but they do have some tough games coming up. I don’t care how good you are, teams can be put under pressure. This is a difficult league to be in. It would be nice to reach top spot by Christmas. But it is not essential. Don’t write us off if we are not there by January.”