Manuel Pellegrini hails James Milner performance as makeshift striker

Manuel Pellegrini has said that James Milner put in a "very good performance" during Manchester City's win over Crystal Palace on Saturday.

The Premier League champions did not name a recognised striker in their starting lineup for the match, with the England midfielder playing in a more attacking role than usual in the 3-0 win.

The Citizens manager told the club's website: "Milner gave a very good performance. He is a player that works very hard, and creates a lot of movement and space for the rest of his teammates.

"We have been preparing for this match all week and we planned all this movement and all the freedom for Milner to create the space for other teammates."

The result leaves City level on points with league leaders Chelsea, having played a game more.