Manuel Pellegrini hails "very important" win

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has said that his side's 2-1 victory over West Bromwich Albion this evening was a "very important result" to close the gap on Arsenal.

City fell behind early on at the Etihad when Joe Hart was beaten at his near post, but a Sergio Aguero penalty restored parity before Samir Nasri netted the winner on his first league start since September.

Arsenal had earlier drawn 3-3 with West Ham United at Upton Park, and Pellegrini was pleased to see his side close the gap on the third-placed Gunners to just two points.

"It is a very important result because Arsenal and West Ham drew today. We knew it would be a difficult game, West Brom are not fighting for anything. Starting 1-0 behind was difficult," he told Sky Sports News.

"I am very happy for Samir Nasri because he has been injured all season. When he played with everyone, our team changed. I always talk to players in private, the media will decide if Joe Hart should have done better for the goal.

"I never analyse the referee, I must see the action again. They played very well."

The result also takes City four points clear of local rivals Manchester United in fifth.