Silva lining: now for Stoke

The City kit boss and former Latics star writes every week for Chron Sport
A WIN or draw against Stoke at the Etihad Stadium tomorrow night will ensure Manchester City are at the summit of the top-flight on Christmas Day for the first time since 1929.

We go into the game two points clear of Manchester United, with superior goal difference.

It is always a tough and physical encounter against Tony Pulis’ side, and I am sure they are desperate to beat us after we defeated them in last season’s FA Cup final and then again in the league a few days later.

But we go into every match full of confidence, knowing that if we play to our strengths, with the teamwork which has brought us this far, we are always capable of winning.

I am glad it’s a home fixture because no-one relishes a trip to the Britannia Stadium, especially on a cold December evening!

After the disappointing defeat at Chelsea, it was important to bounce back against Arsenal and we did just that with a 1-0 victory thanks to David Silva’s 53rd-minute strike.

It is hard to keep throwing superlatives at David; as I have said, before he’s a genius. But it is nice to see him adding goals to his game and it was an important strike as far as the title race is concerned.

I am sure the neutrals enjoyed it, because both sides created plenty of chances and there was a lot of flowing football.

When the Gunners came forward we had to defend well. Kolo Toure, recalled to the starting line-up in place of Joleon Lescott, did well alongside captain Vincent Kompany at the heart of the defence.

Even before our winning run was halted at Stamford Bridge, we had been conceding goals, so it was a boost to not only defeat Arsene Wenger’s side but also keep a clean sheet.

Once we hit the new year period we play seven matches in the space of 24 days, so I am sure a lot of players in the squad will be given time on the pitch. Hopefully we can keep everyone as fresh as possible and avoid picking up any injuries.