Manuel Pellegrini: Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero is one of the best in the Premier League

Manuel Pellegrini has admitted surprise that Sergio Aguero is not considered one of the best players in the Premier League, following the striker’s hat-trick against Chelsea.

The Argentine netted twice from open play, and once from the penalty spot, in an emphatic display against the Blues.

It was a strong Chelsea team, although they have been off form this year, and Aguero waltzed through the defence as if they were meant to be in a division below.

However, the forward has been overlooked in the PFA awards this season, and Pellegrini is confused as to why the 27-year-old is not considered one of the best players in the country.

"It is very strange that Sergio has played so many years here and has never been the best player in the Premier League," the Chilean manager said.

"I think he is really great. I think in the Premier League we have very good players, but without doubt Kun is one of the best, if not the best.

"It was a great victory and a very good performance, very important not just to win but to play the way we did."

City have started to return to their usual selves recently, playing some amazing football as they look to secure their top four place, and compete for the Champions League.

Having had to deal with a host of injuries this season, Pellegrini has hinted that the return of some key players is behind this return to form.

He added: "I always say when you have all of your best players 100 per cent and playing all together, with Kevin, with Kun, with Yaya (Toure), with Nasri, with Fernandinho, of course it is better.

"One of the merits of this squad is to be involved in all competitions. We won the Capital One Cup, unfortunately we lost here 5-1 and wanted revenge for the FA Cup with our young team.

"We are in the Champions League and for different reasons we are not fighting for the Premier League - but when you have all of those players of course it is more easy."