Mahrez and De Bruyne star as Manchester City beat Southampton in seven-goal thriller

Ilkay Gundogan was also on target for Pep Guardiola’s side

Manchester City eased to victory (Martin Rickett/PA)

Riyad Mahrez and Kevin De Bruyne each struck twice as Manchester City overcame a sluggish start and refereeing controversy to beat Southampton 5-2.

Premier League leaders City were contentiously denied a penalty with the score 1-1 in the first half after Saints goalkeeper Alex McCarthy was adjudged not to have fouled Phil Foden and VAR did not overrule.