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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Andy Hampson

Nico O’Reilly: I expect title race to go to the wire as Man City chase Arsenal

Nico O’Reilly has excelled in left-back and midfield roles this term (Martin Rickett/PA) - (PA Wire)

Nico O’Reilly expects the title race to go to the wire as Manchester City chase Arsenal.

City, trailing the Premier League leaders by six points but with two games in hand, need to win at Everton on Monday to keep the pressure on Mikel Arteta’s side.

Three successive wins — including a crucial victory over Arsenal — have given City a momentum they are determined to maintain.

O’Reilly’s form looks set to earn him an England World Cup spot (John Walton/PA) (PA Wire)

O’Reilly, who has excelled in left-back and midfield roles this term, said: “We’re confident in ourselves. There are still a few games to go and it could go down to the last game.

“We’re going to try and win every game and score as much as we can. We’re going into every game trying to put a good performance in and win.”

City moved top of the table on goals scored by beating Burnley last time out but FA Cup involvement and the league schedule have since allowed Arsenal to move back in front.

The Gunners now have the advantage of points on the board, but O’Reilly insists that has not affected City’s approach.

The 21-year-old said: “I’m feeling good and positive and ready for the last few weeks. Everyone is feeling good and we’re excited for the last few weeks of the season.”

O’Reilly has been one of the stars of City’s campaign, first establishing himself as a member of the back four before being handed opportunities in his more natural midfield position.

He is among the leading contenders for young player of the year awards, but O’Reilly is focusing only on the immediate task.

“It would be a great achievement but there are still a few games to go and we’ll see what happens,” said O’Reilly, whose form also looks set to earn him an England World Cup spot.

“I just need to knuckle down and keep working hard.

“With all the games and how intense it is, I don’t think there’s much time to reflect yet. I think that’s when we have time off.”

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