SO FAR SO GOOD

"I have never doubted the ability in our squad - in the early part of the season it was a matter of whether the players had retained their hunger," he said. "To a large extent they have answered that question but it is an on-going challenge."

"We feel the form of the team has come good at the right time before the Christmas period," he said.

So it is City's fault.

"Since the game against Manchester City they've grabbed the nettle and shown their best form. There has been great determination, which is an important ingredient at this club.

"We always say you want to get into that New Year's Day fixture being in the top three. If you do that, you know you have a chance of the league."