Improvement the key for Kelechi

KELECHI Iheanacho accepted he missed a great chance to snatch a late winner for Manchester City against Stoke.

The Nigerian, a late substitute, volleyed wide in the dying moments as Wednesday's rearranged Premier League clash at the Etihad Stadium ended in a dull 0-0 draw.

The result cost City the chance to move to second in the table and left them 10 points behind leaders Chelsea.

Iheanacho said: "As a striker you need to take chances. We need to focus to put the chance (away) if it comes. It came and of course I missed it, but I focus on the next one - that is going to count."

City manager Pep Guardiola rotated his squad for the game, and found greater direction after the second-half introduction of playmaker David Silva, but the Spaniard missed a good chance while Sergio Aguero, Leroy Sane and Yaya Toure were also unable to take opportunities.

Iheanacho said: "I think we didn't do anything wrong. I think we really worked hard but they really stood up because they are a good team as well. They are strong, they really fight.

"We fought to the end and to get a draw was unfortunate but I think we focus on the next games."

That next game is tomorrow's FA Cup quarter-final trip to Middlesbrough.

Iheanacho impressed after breaking into the first team last season, but has found opportunities limited this term due to the form of Sergio Aguero and exciting new signing Gabriel Jesus. He could well get another chance at the Riverside Stadium.

Iheanacho, who has scored seven goals this season but not started a game since January 2, said: "On my part, any time I am in I need to give 100-per-cent because everyone is important in the team.

"I think I have done well but everyone needs to improve.

"I need to keep working and keep improving."