City streetwise - Nasri

SAMIR Nasri is convinced Manchester City are not about to make the same mistakes as last time they defended their Barclays Premier League title.

City made an unconvincing defence of the crown they won in 2012, limping in second to Manchester United after trailing them for the entire second half of the campaign.

This season, though, Nasri believes City is made of sterner stuff as they bid to retain the title, even though they squandered a chance to close on leaders Chelsea on Sunday.

Nasri said: "We are aware of what happened in 2013. That is an example for us. We know what we need to do and what not to do. We learn from our mistakes. Everyone is stronger, more mature.“

City, preparing for tomorrow’s home league game against Sunderland, are currently in talks to try to extend midfielder Frank Lampard’s loan from sister club New York City.

It is uncertain whether he will remain for the whole season, but he is expected to stay to cover the absence of Yaya Toure for the African Nations Cup.