Lambert - We gave it a go

The Welsh wizard struck a clinical second half brace to maintain Spurs' title chase and end City's own recent unbeaten Premier League run.

Lambert was proud of his men's character – but acknowledged the Canaries had faced a special talent.

'I think we gave a good account of ourselves,' he said. 'I thought we gave it everything we had. The enthusiasm was great and we played some really good stuff at times but you are up against a team that are vying for the Premier League and who have had Champions League football and want it again. We never disgraced ourselves that is for sure. Bale is top class. I saw that last year when he destroyed Inter Milan.

'Listen, there are no two ways about it, they are a really top side and they have lads who can change a game in the blink of an eye.

'My lads have got nothing to be ashamed of. We gave it a right good go. The goals were disappointing but you have to remember the magnitude of the team we are playing against. I have nothing but admiration for Spurs and I couldn't ask for any more.'

Lambert confirmed Marc Tierney was forced out of the game with a groin injury which paved the way for a first Premier League start of the season for Adam Drury. Ritchie De Laet also returned after a back problem, but was forced off midway through the second period.

'We don't know what Ritchie has done at this stage. Possibly a touch of cramp because he has not played for a long time either,' said Lambert. 'Marc pulled up yesterday (Monday) with a groin strain so we'll just have to see with some rest this week. It was a tough one for Adam to come into considering he had not really played but I thought he did extremely well. He was excellent. One thing I can say about him is he will never let you down. We have to go Saturday (Fulham at home) and Monday (QPR away) again which is extremely tough on the lads, but we will aim to win both games. That is the way I am.'