(Reuters) - Newcastle United's improvement this season is no surprise, Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola said on Friday as he backed the Tyneside club to remain in and around the top of the Premier League despite their momentum having stalled in recent weeks.
Six successive victories in the league heading into the New Year had Newcastle cemented in the top four but they have won only one of their last seven games and are struggling for goals.
"They have not been here a long time, always you think they need time, but they've done exceptional recruitment," Guardiola told reporters ahead of a City's home game against Newcastle on Saturday. "They are one of the toughest opponents we have until the end of the season, in terms of experience, threat, transitions, set pieces - they are the best team in the league. Many, many things. That is why they have been there all season."
The Spaniard also heaped praise on Burnley, who City face in the FA Cup quarter-finals, adding that the Championship leaders' boss Vincent Kompany is destined to one day become City manager.
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