London--Manuel Pellegrini says Manchester City must make a strong finish to restore some optimism after the champions surrendered the Premier League title without a fight.
By the time Pellegrini's side kick off at Tottenham on Sunday their reign will be over if leaders Chelsea get the win they need against Crystal Palace earlier in the day to guarantee top spot.
With a berth in next season's Champions League all but assured, the end of their title defence would leave second placed City with little to play for in their final four matches.
But, well aware that reports continue to suggest Pellegrini's position could be under threat, the Chilean knows a dynamic end to a frustrating campaign would be a timely reminder to his club's Abu Dhabi-based owners that he is still the right man for the job.
Despite lagging 13 points behind Chelsea heading into this weekend, Pellegrini tried to make a case for his continued employment by insisting City's rather limp efforts this season, which included once again underachieving in Europe with a Champions League last 16 exit, should not be regarded as a failure.
"I said last week that in a bad season it is not a shame to be second. I didn't say it was a good season," Pellegrini said.
"The players, the managers, the owners, the fans -- we are not happy with what we did but I think we are working in the right way and we must arrange some things to try and win the title again next season."
AFP
