Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini was at a loss to explain how his team were beaten by Sunderland at the Stadium of Light this afternoon.

A first-half goal from Phil Bardsley inflicted City's fourth defeat on their travels this season, leaving the Chilean's side six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal.

"The reaction is very similar to the other games that we have lost away," he told Sky Sports News. "It's incredible the way we lost this match.

"Sunderland played really well also defending. The team is not in a good position, so I understand the way they played, but they had just one shot on our goal.

"We had the possession, we had the chances and we didn't score."

Tottenham Hotspur visit the Etihad Stadium after the international break.