Manchester City have asked to meet the body responsible for Premier League referees to discuss their concern at tackles being made against them.

The Premier League leaders have cited nine challenges this term which they say have not been suitably sanctioned.

Forward Raheem Sterling has said City are being "butchered", and team-mate Bernardo Silva said they are targeted.

City also want the rules changed so incidents can be reviewed even if they were punished by the match referee.

Although they have not yet canvassed opinion on the matter, they believe they would be backed by most top-flight clubs in that quest.

Manager Pep Guardiola expressed frustration at a number of fouls committed against his side this term, urging referees to protect his players.

Leroy Sane was ruled out for "six or seven weeks" after being injured in a challenge by Cardiff's Joe Bennett in the FA Cup, with the winger one of seven senior City players currently sidelined.