Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry has insisted that the team will demonstrate their best form next season.
The Premier League champions are currently 15 points behind rivals Manchester United in the latter stages of the campaign, with Sir Alex Ferguson's side almost certain to regain the title this season.
However, the England international believes that the return of key players will aid their fight for the crown next season.
"It is frustrating in many ways because we've shown what a great team we are and what a strong we have in the last few games," he told the club's official website.
"So it's only natural to think that had we played at our best all year we could have had a great chance of retaining the title, but that's probably not going to be now. We've had injuries this year we didn't have last time around and we have almost a fully-fit squad now and I think it shows.
"Micah Richards is just about there now and the manager can pick his strongest squad which I don't think he's been able to very often - if at all this season. All we can do is take each game as it comes, play our best and try and win. Next season we will be back and have learned from what has happened and the aim will be to win the title back."
City host Wigan Athletic in the Premier League on Wednesday.
Matt Law
