Raheem Sterling was given a ticking off by Pep Guardiola for showboating at the end of Manchester City’s comfortable derby win as the manager warned his players there could be no slacking off in the title race.

Sterling was spotted doing a series of step-overs from a stationary position to a chorus of “Oles” from City supporters in the final seconds of the champions’ eighth win in nine league games.

The England forward’s antics angered Juan Mata, the Manchester United midfielder, and Guardiola was later seen grabbing Sterling and telling him not to indulge in such antics.

Asked about the incident, the City manager said: “Her made some movements with the legs, we can avoid it, but he is young, he can improve. But I like a lot how he played.”

City remain two points clear of Liverpool at the top of the table but Guardiola believes there can be no let up with Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal also enjoying strong starts to the campaign.

“Man City right now, and Liverpool and Chelsea, and even Arsenal and Tottenham, they have numbers to be champions,” Guardiola said. “It’s not just Man city. The numbers for Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham are numbers to be champions. Last season we didn’t get points in Anfield. We drew [this season]. Last season [against United], we lost here. Now we won. So it is good. The important thing is we are consistent.