City were at our dynamic best in our last home game, sweeping to a magnificent 4-0 win over the recently crowned league champions.
Both the manner and execution of that victory over Liverpool made for hugely impressive viewing with Jurgen Klopp’s side suffering their heaviest defeat in the past two years.
And, ahead of tonight’s latest league clash against Newcastle, Laporte says the impeccable standards and driven desire demonstrated by City that night should serve as our touchstones for the remainder of the campaign – particularly as we strive for success in both the FA Cup and Champions League
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“It was one of our best performances and hopefully we can do it in the Champions League and the other competitions,” Laporte asserted.
“[It was] close to our best. We are all very good in our positions. We can give everything on the pitch and it is what we have done against Liverpool
“We lost at Liverpool on their pitch so was important that we won at home. We knew before the game that the Premier League was over, but it was good for our mentality to win this game.”
In what will be our second outing against Newcastle in 10 days, City will be seeking to return to winning ways in the wake of last Sunday’s frustrating 1-0 loss at Southampton.
The defeat at the St Mary’s Stadium was in many ways a microcosm of our league campaign with Guardiola’s side creating a host of chances but failing to make our pressure tell while the Saints made the most of their opportunities.
And for the French defender, the lessons and message for City is clear going forwards. Stay focused at all times – and seek to convert our dominance into goals. As was the case when we beat Newcastle 2-0 in the FA Cup quarter final in late June.
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“We just didn’t finish the action well. We tried many times. I think it was 26 shots and not one goal so that is just unbelievable!” Laporte reflected.
“If one goes in the net, I think we could have maybe scored four!
“I think we are conceding too many mistakes. From our mistakes we lose many games, so we need to be more focused on every game and every action
“I think we play really well; we have a very good team and we have to be a little bit more focused.
“We are playing very well, but sometimes it doesn’t work. The opponents play as well and sometimes they can beat us.”
Many have pointed to the serious knee injury Laporte sustained in our home game with Brighton back in August as a pivotal moment in why City have missed out on the title this term.
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However, the modest Frenchman insisted he didn’t think that was the case – but did assert he was now more determined than ever to play a key role for the Club and help in the collective drive for success both this season and beyond.
Asked whether the team would have been stronger without his injury, Laporte said: “I don’t know. They have to say that if they think that, but I don’t think that!
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“When I am on the pitch, I try to do my best. If I can give us more chances to be on top of the league, then that is better for me and the team too.
“I am focused, and I work hard to be there and important to the team.
“Hopefully in the next year I will be there all season and enjoy playing many games.”
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