Schmeichel: Play Like Champions

And with just two games remaining and a championship trophy still to pick up on the final day, Schmeichel has paid tribute to those behind-the-scenes who have played their part in City’s success this season. 

“We’ve talked a lot about the spirit of the team and the spirit of the Club,” said Schmeichel. “Everyone was hurting last season, and they’ve come back in with a great mentality and a great mindset to do well for the Club and I’m delighted for everyone involved with the Club and the fans. 

“I’m delighted for the owners, the coaching staff and all the people behind the scenes who don’t really get any recognition. There are a lot of people at the training ground that people don’t see, but they do a lot of work for the players. It’s a great thing for the entire Club, but most of all for the fans. 

“It’s a great feeling, a great win and what a goal to finish it off. It was one heck of a strike and an amazing way to win the title.” 

City’s performance level against Bolton was outstanding, and typical of the type of displays that have become a familiar sight under Nigel Pearson’s guidance this season. 

And for City’s Denmark international, working under the manager has certainly been an enjoyable experience. He said: “I make no secret that I’ve loved every minute of playing under him, and I think a lot of the lads have. 

“You can see that from the way we play – we’ve played positive football all season and we’ve reaped the rewards. 

“He’s a very good manager. It’s very important to be a good man manager when you’ve got a squad of good players, because you can only pick 11. 

“He’s a very good man manager and tactically this season we’ve been very good. Obviously the players have played their part as well and everyone deserves praise, but there are too many to name. 

“Premier League football next season is what we’ve all been dreaming of from the time I’ve been at the Club. It’s great and we’ll go away, have a great summer and really look forward to coming back. 

“We’ve got Huddersfield on Saturday and that’s another chance to win three points. We’re champions and we want to play like champions.”