John Stones scored twice and Kevin De Bruyne claimed his 100th assist as Manchester City cruised into second place in the Premier League.
John Stones scored twice as Manchester City moved into second place in the Premier League by sweeping aside Crystal Palace 4-0 at the Etihad Stadium.
With league leaders Manchester United and defending champions Liverpool sharing the spoils in a goalless stalemate at Anfield, City took full advantage to move within two points of first place.
City had made their worst start to a season since 2008-09, but since a 2-0 defeat to Tottenham on November 21, Guardiola’s men have not looked back.
It is now seven wins from nine in the league for City, who have conceded just twice in that run and, on this form, are surely set to be instilled as the outstanding favourites to clinch the title. Palace, on the other hand, are entrenched in mid-table.
