MANCHESTER -- Pep Guardiola hailed the inspirational Kevin De Bruyne after he helped inspires Manchester City to an emphatic 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur that extended their winning streak to 16 games.

The Belgian midfielder scored the second -- a powerful strike that beat Hugo Lloris for pace -- as they moved 14 points clear at the top of the Premier League ahead of Manchester United's game at West Bromwich Albion on Sunday.

De Bruyne's 70th-minute goal came shortly after he caught by a terrible tackle from Spurs' Dele Alli that saw the midfielder booked, although he could easily have been a red card.

"Fortunately it was just a kick," Guardiola told a news conference of that incident. "I say thank you to all my players, especially Kevin because he is one of the most talented players and you see how he runs without the ball.

"He is a good example for the young players, for our academy players. They know good Kevin De Bruyne is and when they see how he runs and he fights for the ball that is the best example and he helps us to be a better club for the future. His performance today -- I have no words to describe."

Kevin De Bruyne scored and drew a penalty in Man City's win. Getty

City are now 21 points clear of Tottenham, but Guardiola was full of praise fro Maurcio Pochettino's side -- a team they failed to beat either home or away in his first season at the club.

"We made an outstanding performance, we scored four goals and created a mountain of chances against one of the best and strongest teams with one of the best coaches in the world," he said. "We are so satisfied for the mentality, winning 15 games and now another one.

"I am proud, I don't want to be humble, I am proud with my staff. We work a lot, the players know that. But without club support and good players it's impossible to create these sort of things."

Ilkay Gundogan opened the scoring in the 14th minute with a simple header before Raheem Sterling added two late goals to put some gloss on the result, particularly after Gabriel Jesus hit the post from the penalty spot.

Gundogan was making just his second Premier League start since a crucuiate knee ligament injury suffered a year ago last Thursday.

"I have been through tough times so especially games like today where you are able to improve your self-confidence are very important. Today was a good day," the German international said. "It was an incredible performance. We are happy to beat a team like Tottenham.

"I was a bit surprised that I was free [for the goal]. I guess the Spurs players didn't know I am strong at that!"