Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola believes their team spirit and work ethic are the reasons for their outstanding results so far this season.

The Citizens are within touching distance of Chelsea at the top of the Premier League, while they are through as group winners in the Champions League.

Guaridola's side claimed a hard fought win over West Ham United at the weekend, with Fernandinho scoring in the game to become their 16th goalscorer of the season.

"We defend and attack as a team, or we will not survive," Guardiola said, per the club website.

"But I am so happy with the way we play. The way we have done so far has been exceptional in terms of the (Premier) League and the Champions League.

"The way that we are playing is exceptional. We have the toughest month of the season ahead of us with a lot of games, so we have to continue."