Roberto Mancini: 'Manchester City slump not my fault'

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini is adamant that it is the players who are responsible for his side's recent slump.

The Premier League champions made it three consecutive games without a win after losing 3-1 to Southampton at St Mary's on Saturday.

City are now 12 points behind Manchester United in the table, and Mancini believes that the players need a snappy response.

"When you play football and you are a top player, you should take your responsibility, always," said Mancini.

"It's not always the fault of the manager.

"The players should take responsibility - if they have big balls. If not, they can't play in a top team."

City host Chelsea in their next match on February 24.