Barry wants defensive strength

England midfielder Gareth Barry admits Manchester City need to improve their defensive record if they want to retain their Premier League crown.

Man City midfielder admits things need to improve

England midfielder Gareth Barry admits Manchester City need to improve their defensive record if they want to retain their Premier League crown. City have won just two of their five competitive games, coming from behind to beat promoted Southampton on the opening weekend and then seeing off QPR 3-1. They have also had to come from behind to snatch draws at Liverpool and Stoke, while on Tuesday they conspired to concede twice in the final three minutes to lose 3-2 against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu. With in-form Arsenal due to visit the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, Barry realises now would be a good time to hit top form again.

Massive

"It has not been an ideal start to the season," the midfielder said. "We finished last season with a great defensive record. "This time we are scoring a lot of goals but conceding at the same time. I am sure as the season goes on it is something we can work on. "We have started pretty steadily in the league, undefeated. But this game against Arsenal is massive. "They are a great side and we have got to try to continue our fine home form."