Manchester City star told he was ‘off the pace’ in 1-1 draw with Newcastle United.

Manchester City star told he was ‘off the pace’ in 1-1 draw with Newcastle United.

Manchester City dropped what could be crucial points in the title race as a second half Anthony Gordon penalty ensured a point for Newcastle.

The Magpies produced a much improved second half performance to get back into the game while City struggled to create chances until the dying embers of the game.Part of the reason for City struggling was a real lack of drive and creativity from the usual reliable midfield area.Rico Lewis struggled at times, while Ilkay Gundogan and Mateo Kovacic offered little as well.

Indeed, speaking about one of that midfield trio, ex-Premier League and England wide man Stewart Downing suggested Gundogan was some way off the pace.Ilkay Gundogan told he was ‘off the pace’ against Newcastle

Speaking for BBC Sport, former Middlesbrough winger Downing commented on the performance of Gundogan and admitted to not being impressed by the German midfielder.

“I’m not surprised. Gundogan has looked a little bit off the pace with his final balls not quite being accurate,” Downing said.

“I’m not surprised Foden has come on.”

Gundogan looked nowhere near his former self

The signing of Gundogan and getting him back on a free is a huge bonus for Pep Guardiola and City, especially now Rodri is out.However, he looked nowhere near the level needed today and at times, a lot of attacks seemed to break down through him.

In the first half, he twice made the wrong decision when Erling Haaland was in on goal and in the end, it has cost City good chances to win.

Gundogan, by his own high standards, will be expecting far more of himself in the future.