The 29-year-old says the title race is still not over despite trailing rivals United by 12 points but admits that it will be difficult to catch a team with such experience

Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure says his team will not give up their Premier League ambitions after their 1-0 victory over Aston Villa, despite trailing rivals Manchester United by 12 points.

A first-half strike from Carlos Tevez was enough to seal a narrow but deserved win for the champions and, though the 29-year-old admits that the pressure is on, he is adamant that they will not stop in their pursuit for a second consecutive title.

“We know it’s going to be difficult, but the most important thing is that we have to keep staying tight to [Manchester United],” he told Sky Sports.

“I think the 12 points is a lot; United have fantastic experience. I think it’s not finshed though – we have to keep fighting for the fans and for the club.

“You see the people, the fans coming out today to support us, [it] was really nice.

“Of course, there was quite big pressure [after United and Tottenham won]. I think we needed to deliver today. It was a very good game and Aston Villa played very well.

“In the first 20 minutes it was very difficult for us but I think we managed and it’s a great three points for us.”

Toure’s brother, Kolo, put in a strong performance in the win at Villa Park up against Christian Benteke and observed after the game that the side are showing the right type of spirit to be a top club.

“[Benteke] is a great young striker and I knew it was going to be a big battle,” the elder Toure added. “I think all the team was defending well.

“We attacked together and that’s the kind of spirit we need to have if we want to be one of the best clubs in the Premier League.

“I’m doing my best. I love football. Every time I have the chance to play I will give 100 per cent; that’s what I want to do every game.”