No shame coming second, says defensive Manuel Pellegrini

MANCHESTER CITY 3 ASTON VILLA 2: SHOWING far more impressive defensive instincts than those displayed by his players during the preceding 90 minutes, Manuel Pellegrini launched his most articulate and spirited analysis yet of a season of under-achievement at the Etihad.

The understated Chilean has long insisted it will only be at season’s end that he will look back and discuss a campaign that has seen his side fail miserably to defend their Premier League title while simultaneously coming nowhere near success in any one of three cup competitions.

Such form has led to the widespread belief that the summer will see the veteran manager depart, two years into a three-year contract and just 12 months after leading City to the championship. But if and when he faces that awkward exit interview with his Abu Dhabi paymasters, Pellegrini clearly intends to go down fighting.