• Premier League

Hart criticises City team-mates

ESPN staff
April 22, 2013
Joe Hart insists Manchester City can bounce back from the disappointment © PA Photos
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Joe Hart has criticised his Manchester City team-mates for the way they let their advantage slip to Tottenham at White Hart Lane on Sunday.

City were in front through Samir Nasri's goal in the fifth minute, but were then stunned when Spurs hit back to score three times in the space of seven minutes near the end to lose the encounter 3-1.

And with the defeat set to give Manchester United the opportunity to clinch the Premier League title with victory over Aston Villa on Monday night, Hart has accused his team-mates of failing to wrap the contest up.

"We took the lead and didn't kick on from there. Second half we just kind of existed and paid the price," Hart told City TV. "I just thought we took our foot off the gas and you can't do that. Spurs have got a lot to play for and congratulations to them but I'm not really interested in them.

"We messed up in Europe and we have had plenty of weeks rest so I don't think that is what it is down to. It was just a poor second half."

City have struggled in the defence of their title this season, with United seemingly cruising to their 20th league crown as they are currently 13 points clear. Despite the inconsistent season, goalkeeper Hart believes City have the ability to brush off the disappointment and end the campaign strongly.

"But we will bounce back easily, it is what we do. We have proved that many a time. We have a big game coming up against West Ham," he said.

"It is always good to win at home and we have got the FA Cup final [against Wigan] that all the boys are trying to win their spots for."

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