Ex-City star Lescott admits shock at his former side's surprise slump in form

Former Manchester City star Joleon Lescott hopes the club's surprise slump in form gives them a welcome 'kick up the backside' to get their season back on track.

Two-time Premier League winner Lescott has been shocked to see last season's Treble-winners lose three of their last four games.

Defeat to Newcastle United in the EFL Cup, an unexpected loss to Wolves and then a disappointing defeat to title-rivals Arsenal sees Pep Guardiola's side third in the Premier League and two points off the pace.

'I hope it [their recent results] gives them a boot up the backside,' said Lescott.

'I think they were aware that Arsenal would be a team that challenges them this year.

'The Wolves one was difficult. Wolves have always been difficult, they've always been a half bogey team for City. It was a surprise, but it happens.

'But the Arsenal defeat has hopefully added motivation for them.

'You've got to be aware of the impact that City had on Arsenal last year. Their whole recruitment was based around the team games they played around City.

'Going into the game the appetite to win and the understanding of the need to win was probably bigger for Arsenal.'

But despite a worrying blip in form, legendary Blues centre-back Lescott – who won four pieces of silverware during a glittering run at the Ethiad Stadium – has backed his former club to come up trumps again this season.

'City have hit a level of consistency that has been unmatched over the past six or seven years,' added Lescott. 'That means they are able to catch teams.

'If you know you want to win the league and finish above Man City, you know you have to beat Man City. I think that was a factor as well.

'But at the end of the day no teams are perfect. It's strange because it hasn't happened