Manchester City attacker Riyad Mahrez says the squad competition at the champions is driving his form.

Mahrez arguably enjoyed his best campaign yet since joining City from Leicester three years ago and this ensured he made 48 appearances across all competitions last season.

“I think I had good numbers last year, but I could've had more," Mahrez told City's match programme.

"But my performances were very good, so I was happy. The competition here has helped me a lot to improve my game. The manager as well. He is very demanding, he's very into little details and he pushes you until the end.

"You have to be strong mentally to go higher and higher. You just have to work hard and play good every game and the manager decides, but if you play very good every game you have more of a chance to play."