2nd February, 2016
Manchester City responded to the news of manager Manuel Pellegrini’s summer departure with a hard-earned win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
Pellegrini – who will be replaced by Pep Guardiola – saw Sergio Aguero gather a deflected cross to coolly finish with the outside of his foot.
Sunderland rallied, debutant Lamine Kone heading wide before Billy Jones hit the post just before the break.
Jones forced a Joe Hart save late on as City – sluggish on the night – held on.
Relive how City edged out Sunderland
They remain three points adrift of leaders Leicester City, while Sunderland stay four points from safety in 19th.
Sam Allardyce’s side can, however, take pride in their display, and only a Nicolas Otamendi header on the goal line in injury time denied them a deserved point.