By Tim Abraham
Manchester City defender Aleksandar Kolarov believes the attacking philosophy adopted by manager Manuel Pellegrini has also helped his side become tighter at the back ahead of their Premier League clash with Southampton.
City are the second most prolific team in the Premier League with 80 goals this season with only leaders Liverpool (88) having found the net more often.
Pellegrini's title-chasers have also conceded just 28 goals which gives them the second meanest defence in the division behind Chelsea (24) and as a result their goal difference of 52 is the best overall.
Serbia international Kolarov believes defending, particularly in the fullback areas, has become easier because of the attacking intent shown by City, who trail leaders Liverpool by four points but remain favourites to win the title with two games in hand.
"As a fullback I have to think of defending," said Kolarov. "But if you have a winger against you for example, it is difficult for him if you are always attacking, because he has to follow you.
"I have also been creating chances, and personally feel I have been having a good season - I hope it can finish this way."
Kolarov was second-choice for the left-back position behind Gael Clichy under previous manager Roberto Mancini, but has featured more than the France international this season.
City are set to have Sergio Aguero available as they look to get their title bid back on course against Southampton after a 1-1 draw at Arsenal last time out.
Pellegrini is likely to name Aguero on the bench in order to ease him back from the injury and ensure he is available for the run-in, particularly his side's top-of-the-table clash with Liverpool next Sunday.
AFP
source: newshub archive
