West Ham United boss Sam Allardyce has declared that Manchester City are the "best team in the Premier League".

The Hammers were beaten 6-0 by City in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final on Wednesday, and Allardyce believes that Manuel Pellegrini's side are the finest in the country.

In an email to the club's fans, Allardyce said: "Many teams have gone to Manchester City and, like us, have suffered a painful time. It's hard to take and difficult to accept but the facts are that Manchester City are the best team in the Premier League at home and have been the best team in the league since the start of the season.

"We all knew they were very, very good and we've seen it live because our players tried as hard as they could, but couldn't get near these Manchester City players.

"Their quality is top-drawer and they are great finishers, never mind top footballers."

The Hammers play Cardiff City on Saturday.