Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry has insisted that he is not bothered by mind games during this season's title race.

Tottenham Hotspur's Rafael van der Vaart has already claimed that City are feeling the pressure of being top of the league, while Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is known for his psychological tricks.

"I am sure there will be a few comments made, ­especially as they are playing before us – that's an ideal time for those sort of mind games," said Barry.

"It's a big part of it at this stage of the season, so it is important we don't get too involved in what is going on off the pitch.

"It has to be all about us now and we can't really worry about other teams. We should be focusing entirely on ourselves."

City travel to Wigan Athletic in the league on Monday night.

Written by
Jack Prescott