Champions return to top of Premier League thanks to three second-half goals

Manchester City returned to the top of the Premier League with a 3-0 home win over Brighton thanks to three second-half goals.

Liverpool had knocked the champions off the summit with a win over Manchester United, but Pep Guardiola’s side responded with victory over the Seagulls to move a point above the Reds with six games to go.

After a frustrating goalless first half, City took the lead in the 53rd minute through Riyad Mahrez whose shot deflected off Joel Veltman and looped over goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.

City’s second also came courtesy of a deflection, as Phil Foden’s strike from distance (65) went in off a defender to find the bottom corner. Bernardo Silva curled in a third with eight minutes left to ensure the title race remains in City’s hands.