Kevin De Bruyne called on Manchester City fans to support the players as they look to get back to their best.

Pep Guardiola was critical of the performance despite a 4-1 win over West Ham, with the visitors causing City problems in the first half and also finishing the game the stronger. Niclas Fullkrug's goal to wipe out City's clean sheet made for an unconvincing end to the game despite the emphatic scoreline.

City playmaker De Bruyne captained the team on his 400th appearance and set up Phil Foden for an easy finish in the second half as he played the entire game as he works his way back to full fitness. Asked about a 'nervous' atmosphere inside the ground in the latter part of the game, the Belgian asked for support.

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"I don't know why. I can understand that we are not up to the level but they should support us because the effort is there and we are still winning 4-1," he told Sky Sports. "I don't understand what is happening. The team gave maximum effort. The level has to be higher but we understand that."

De Bruyne also dismissed a question about his future with his contract in the final six months of his deal. The 33-year-old can speak to clubs abroad about but must also prove to his bosses at the Etihad that he deserves a new deal if he is to stay in Manchester for an 11th season.

"I don't care. I am just trying to get back to my level," he said. "I feel every week I am getting better. I can for 90 minutes now. It has been an uncomfortable couple of months with the injury."