Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has spoken out about how he believes his side are still in the title race, but is concerned about the recent performances of his team. He also addressed criticism over his tactics, maintaining that he believes starting with two strikers was the right option.

City went down 2-1 at Anfield on Sunday thanks to two wonder strikes from Jordan Henderson and Philippe Coutinho, with a well worked Edin Dzeko goal the Citizens only reply. The defeat means that City remain five points behind Chelsea at the helm of the Barclays Premier League, whilst the Londoners have a game in hand. Despite this, Pellegrini refused to give up hopes of his side retaining he Premier League title.

"It is not in the spirit [to give up]. We never give up hope of winning the title. We must improve our play first, and then try to win the next game. You never know in football what will happen. It is more difficult when you have less games and you continue with the same points, but I don't think the team can think about that."

Pellegrini admitted that despite Liverpool scoring 'two very good goals in the top corner', he is concerned about his sides performance.

"We were playing very well in the last two games, Stoke and Newcastle. We start the week by losing 2-1 to Barcelona and then today. It was not our team, we can't lose so many balls with the amount of technical players we have. I'm concerned that we are losing the ball too much- pressure is a factor. There is much we have to analyse to improve."

The Chilean's tactics had been questioned after starting two strikers with Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero both in the starting line up. This allowed Liverpool to gain control in midfield, and press the ball high up the pitch forcing City into indirect, long passes. He did defend his choices though, stating that he believed he made the right call.

"It was a close game and Liverpool scored their second goal when we only had one striker on the pitch. This is why I think it didn't make a difference, as they scored two beautiful goals."

Manchester City and Pellegrini must recover quickly from the disappointing defeat as they host Leicester City at the Etihad on Wednesday night.