John Stones has warned Chelsea they will be facing Manchester City’s mean machine on Saturday.

Stones is the linchpin of City’s miserly defence, which has conceded just three goals all season.

City’s attack has received most plaudits during their seven-game winning run and Stones hailed the part played by the backline as they prepare for their biggest test yet against Chelsea.

“From my perspective, and the back four and the keeper, to keep clean sheets has been a big target and we’ve been defensively solid in the Premier League and Champions League,” said the England centre-half.

Stones consoles Taison but is now focused on City's upcoming match with Chelsea (
Image:
REX/Shutterstock)
Stones does well to keep Shakhtar striker Fred at bay during City's 2-0 win (
Image:
Getty)

“It’s about carrying that on now. It’s a big thing for me and it’s as satisfying as the boys up top scoring.

“I’m trying to work hard at my game in training and to enjoy my football. It always helps when we’re winning and scoring goals and keeping clean sheets like we are doing now.”

City conceded five in their two ill-tempered league defeats to Chelsea last season and Stones feels Pep Guardiola’s Blues are more resolute now.

Raheem Sterling celebrates his strike in City's Champions League win (
Image:
Reuters)
Pep Guardiola was all smiles as City continued their stunning form (
Image:
Manchester City FC)

He says they are confident they can keep another clean sheet at Stamford Bridge.

“We’ve had that mentality in each game,” he said. “It was a massive bonus for us to beat Shakhtar Donetsk and get another clean sheet.

“We need to keep carrying that on, keeping clean sheets, and it gives us a good platform to go on and go and score at the other end.”

Sergio Aguero and Fernandinho were sent off against Chelsea at the Etihad, while the two backroom teams were involved in an angry exchange at Stamford Bridge and Ilkay Gundogan says City are prepared for another battle.

The Germany midfielder, who returned from his latest knee injury in midweek, says they can stand up to Chelsea.

“We need to be ready and show our mentality, especially in these games,” said Gundogan.

“It’s a huge game for us. We want to go there and play our best and hopefully win the game. It’s also about character, going to Stamford Bridge against the champions to play our game.

“The last games have shown we’re ready and hopefully it will be a great game for us.”

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