Newcastle United legend, Alan Shearer has insisted that Manchester City’s porous defence is a ‘concern’ in their Premier League title race this season.
Shearer spoke while speaking about Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola’s frustration following the Cityzens’ 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United in the Premier League at the weekend.
Guardiola’s side had the opportunity to cut Arsenal’s lead in the Premier League table to just one point ahead of Sunday’s North London derby at the Emirates.
However, Man City failed to even get a point as two goals from Harvey Barnes ensured Newcastle defeated the visitors at St James’ Park.
The outcome of the match means City are now in third position on the Premier League table with seven points behind leaders Arsenal.
“I understand his [Guardiola’s] frustration because his team has been beaten and well-beaten in that second half,” Shearer told Premier League Productions.
“They didn’t create a lot. He’s raw just after the game, he’s seen his team beaten in a really tough game, but for me, the concern would be how many chances they are giving up, not any refereeing decisions or bad luck.
“If Newcastle had their shooting boots on, they should have scored six or seven – they missed four absolute sitters. The way they carved City open would be a bigger concern for me.
“They are certainly not the same team without the brilliant Rodri and the protection he gives them in that team.
“But the concern would be for me defensively. They are always going to score goals, particularly with Haaland up front, but defensively they certainly aren’t as sharp as they used to be.”