City need more threat to go with control, says Pep

Match Report

City's title hopes hit after Hammers blow

A point leaves us nine points behind leaders Arsenal although we have a game in hand over the Gunners and a clash at the Etihad still to come.

City dominated possession but struggled for clear opportunities in the first half at the London Stadium.

The Premier League’s leading scorer Erling Haaland was not on target but Guardiola says there are reasons why City are struggling to find the net.

“The lack of goals, we miss it but it’s not about that,” the boss said. “At the beginning of the season Phil [Foden] was unstoppable as well.

“It’s easy to say the reason why is this player or this player but it’s about connections, vibes, form and many things that create good interactions.

“Erling knows it, we need his goals but we need to create more like in the first 20 minutes of the second half.

“First half we had a lot of control but didn’t have that threat. For him to be involved we have to create that threat. He will be back soon.”