West Bromwich Albion boss Roy Hodgson says Manchester City can be proud of their campaign.

Manchester United could secure the title by this weekend if results go in their favour before Sunday's encounter with Aston Villa at Old Trafford.

Hodgson said: "They've done very well. Unfortunately for Roberto, there is some negativity surrounding them because they haven't been able to keep the championship race going down to the wire.

"That is a bit of disappointment on everyone's part. We were all hoping for a last-ditch battle between United and City to see who wins the championship.

"Now, with five or six games to go, it is pretty obvious it is going to be Manchester United and congratulations to them.

"As a result City, who have made it such a fascinating battle and made life so hard for them, they are now not receiving the praise they deserve for keeping the fighting going for as long as they have.

"To be honest, finishing second isn't such a bad thing either. It's a long while since City have finished second. You've got to go back to the Joe Mercer-Malcolm Allison days."