Pellegrini not conceding

City manager believes title challenge still possible for his side

Manuel Pellegrini refused to write off Manchester City's fading bid to retain the Premier League title despite a 2-1 loss at Crystal Palace on Monday that left it nine points back of leader Chelsea.

Pellegrini's side has just seven games to close the gap and while City manager Pellegrini said he was happy with his team's performance at Selhurst Park on Monday, its recent results suggest there is little chance of the champion reviving its challenge.