Kevin De Bruyne hails Man City’s character after victory over Leicester

Runaway leaders dominated proceedings but were made to work hard for their breakthrough

(Getty Images)

Kevin De Bruyne praised Manchester City’s character as they closed in on the Premier League title.

The leaders beat Leicester 2-0 on Saturday and need just three more wins from their final seven games to regain the crown.

Benjamin Mendy and Gabriel Jesus, on his birthday, sent City 17 points clear at the top - ahead of Manchester United’s game with Brighton on Sunday night.

It was a 15th straight away win in all competitions and De Bruyne was impressed with City’s focus after many players went away with their countries for World Cup qualifiers.

“They played defensive and we had to be patient. That’s what we did and I was happy for Mendy to break the deadlock,” he told the club’s official website.

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“I thought we were really good today. Especially the first half we totally dominated. They had the chance with [Jamie] Vardy but in the first half there was basically one team playing.

“If you look at 90 minutes it was 2-0. I think we deserved more goals. After an international break, that’s really well done by the team.

“I came back on Tuesday after the game and trained on Thursday and half the team trained yesterday.

“All we can do is rest up, be ready for the games and the manager chooses the players who have been here the longest.

“When you win the game it’s always the right pick. The team did really well and I am really pleased.”

PA