LONDON: Manchester City remain 10 points ahead of the Premier League after Raheem Sterling’s header early in the game gave them a 1-0 win over Arsenal.

18 consecutive wins in all competitions put City closer to a third league title in four years, although Pep Guardiola’s men ‘s performance was slightly reduced in Emirates action.

Sterling had the best three chances in the first five minutes of the game, but only Riyad Mahrez’s cross was completed for the 10th net victory in 13 league games.

“People feel it looks easy. This is very difficult. I did not expect such consistent action over the last month. Winning 1-0 in this match is what we need,” Guardiola said.

City now equals the club record for 11 consecutive wins at away in all competitions, recorded from May to November 2017.

They are the first top league team to win 11 league opening matches starting earlier in the year.

Arsenal remain in 10th place in the league and the best chance to return to the Champions League is by winning the Europa League.