Make no mistake, regardless of what they say, this is a massive game for both halves of Manchester. It has been almost 18 months since we suddenly became the richest club in the world, and we are, slowly becoming a club worthy of that moniker. However, change, particularly the sort of wholesale change expected in Abu Dhabi, takes time. Only the most foolhardy of fans expected instant success, but is it unrealistic to back us to reach a final at this stage of our development? Perhaps. Particularly when standing in our way over two legs are the red half of Manchester, the most successful English club over the last two decades. But I said this was an important game for both halves of Manchester, and it is. United are not as strong as they were last year. The crush of debt meant an £80m deal for Ronaldo was impossible to turn down, and they lost Carlos Tevez to us. Whilst replacements have been drafted in to an extent, no-one can argue that United are weaker now than when they lifted the Premier League trophy almost nine months ago. So this match, over two legs will act as a sort of litmus test in measuring our progress, and who better to measure against than our biggest and bitterest rivals?
If I am brutally honest, I am not overly optimistic. I think this game comes a month to early for us. We are still riddled with injuries, and have had only a month under Mancini. The display at Everton showed that maybe we had not moved forward quite as much as hoped. Some players were woefully absent from the game, and Manchester United will take no prisoners. A lot of our hopes will rest on the diminutive Carlos Tevez. It is clear this fixture means a lot to him- his effort against United earlier in the season was almost unmatched, and you will remember he was carrying an injury for that game.
Much has been said about what team SAF will put out tonight. The fact that the game is over two legs will I think have an effect on his choice. Whilst a couple of 'kids' could end up in the squad, I think it will be mostly squad players, such as Neville, Giggs (if fit) and Owen. United have there own injury worries, and this is probably their lowest priority. However I do not think SAF will accept letting us through to the final, and dependant on the result of the first leg, could play a stronger side at Old Trafford next week.
But regardless, we cannot worry too much about our opponents choices tonight. Our choices are limited as to who we can play. With Santa Cruz injured, I would expect Benjani to come in for him. I would not expect Bellamy to start, his injuries may rule him out. Petrov also came off after 45 minutes on Saturday, so he must be a question mark for the game. SWP should start, his cameo was one of the only bright sparks of an other wise dismal evening on Saturday. If Bellamy and Petrov are both unavailable though, who will take over on the left? One option would be Robinho, starting him in this game would be a big statement from Mancini, and would surely do wonders for his confidence. But can another no-show performance be risked? At the back, I would like to see Onuoha return if available, shifting Richards to right back instead of Zabaleta, and an other wise unchanged line up:
--------------Given------------
Richards--Onuoha--Kompany--Garrido
---------De Jong---Barry----------
SWP------------Tevez---------Bellamy/Petrov/Robinho
--------------Benjani--------------
Prediction: a narrow defeat, City 1 - 2 United
Tuesday, 19 January 2010
Monday, 18 January 2010
Injury Update
Roque Santa Cruz is set to be out for a month, the official site reports today. However, Stephen Ireland is expected to make the bench.
Wanye Bridge is expected to be back in about 10 days, with Lescott another 10 days on top of that.
Wanye Bridge is expected to be back in about 10 days, with Lescott another 10 days on top of that.
Rumor: Robinho On Way Out After Subbing
Monday's papers have speculation that Robinho will be on his way out after being subbed off, having only come on as a substitute in the 9th minute.
The article however has no real substance, and is just speculation by the paper writer. The quotes from Mancini are taken as bites from the larger post match interviews.
Much has been bad of Robinho going off as a substitute, but he came on in the 9th minute, playing 51 minutes off football, meaning he basically played from the start of the match. Petrov, who did start, played only 45 minutes.
Whilst i'm not going to argue for Robinho's form as of late, he is coming back off a long lay off, and is still getting match fit again. This is a classic case of a player suffering a lack of confidence, and the media targeting of him, when he was no more culpable than others at Goodison, is not going to help in the long run.
The article however has no real substance, and is just speculation by the paper writer. The quotes from Mancini are taken as bites from the larger post match interviews.
Much has been bad of Robinho going off as a substitute, but he came on in the 9th minute, playing 51 minutes off football, meaning he basically played from the start of the match. Petrov, who did start, played only 45 minutes.
Whilst i'm not going to argue for Robinho's form as of late, he is coming back off a long lay off, and is still getting match fit again. This is a classic case of a player suffering a lack of confidence, and the media targeting of him, when he was no more culpable than others at Goodison, is not going to help in the long run.
Sunday, 17 January 2010
Everton Ratings
Given- 6 Made some good saves, not to blame for free kick or penalty.
Zabaleta- 4 Another foul that has cost us. Ineffective
Richards- 5 Disappointing after a good performance on Monday night. Needless penalty given away
Kompany- 6 A pretty solid performance at the back.
Garrido- 6 A nothing performance, but reasonable in defense
Barry- 5 Disappointing. Hid when a performance was needed
De Jong- 5 Again, disappointing. Dominated in midfield by Everton
Petrov- 4 Another no show. Should be replaced by SWP
Bellamy- 5 Nothing was coming off, but not for lack of trying. Form has dipped in the past weeks
Tevez- 5 Seemed to pick up an injury early in the game. Did not play as well in the primary striker role. Still, tireless running as always
RSC- NA Living up to his sick note reputation. Injured after 5 minutes
Subs
Robinho- 4 Ineffective again away from home.
SWP- 6 Came off the bench in the second half and looked bright, taking players on. Should definatly start on Tuesday
Benjani- 5 Was not able to make in impact in the second half.
Zabaleta- 4 Another foul that has cost us. Ineffective
Richards- 5 Disappointing after a good performance on Monday night. Needless penalty given away
Kompany- 6 A pretty solid performance at the back.
Garrido- 6 A nothing performance, but reasonable in defense
Barry- 5 Disappointing. Hid when a performance was needed
De Jong- 5 Again, disappointing. Dominated in midfield by Everton
Petrov- 4 Another no show. Should be replaced by SWP
Bellamy- 5 Nothing was coming off, but not for lack of trying. Form has dipped in the past weeks
Tevez- 5 Seemed to pick up an injury early in the game. Did not play as well in the primary striker role. Still, tireless running as always
RSC- NA Living up to his sick note reputation. Injured after 5 minutes
Subs
Robinho- 4 Ineffective again away from home.
SWP- 6 Came off the bench in the second half and looked bright, taking players on. Should definatly start on Tuesday
Benjani- 5 Was not able to make in impact in the second half.
Everton Thoughts
Well, it was always going to happen- Roberto Mancini has lost his first game in charge of Manchester City. What was not a certainty however was the abject nature of the loss. Whilst perhaps not as spineless as the Tottenham performance that ultimately cost Hughes his job, it was not far off.
It all got off to a bad start when Santa Cruz had to come off after 5 minutes, to be replaced by Robinho. This pushed Tevez into the main striker role, as opposed to supporting a player like Benjani or Adebayor.
All the players that had earned such praise in the last few weeks managed to give performances that were shadows of what they are capable off. The promising midfield duo of De Jong and Barry were particularly poor, both were comprehensively outplayed in the center of the park by an admittedly superior Everton side. Bellamy worked hard as always, but ultimately failed to contribute, and for all his huffing and puffing since the departure about Hughes about almost expecting a position in the side week in week out, was almost as ineffective as Robinho.
The two goals conceded were both from set pieces, the first from a free kick, given away by contender for clumsiest defender of the year, Zabaleta, and the second a silly penalty given away by Micah Richards.
As disappointing as the whole performance was, lets not get carried away. This defeat was only the third of the term, equal best with Chelsea, and came on a weekend where Liverpool and Tottenham both drew in games they would probably be expected to win, and at the time of writting, Aston Villa are also drawing at West Ham. What is more important is that Mancini learns about his squad in advance of the important semi final on Tuesday.
It all got off to a bad start when Santa Cruz had to come off after 5 minutes, to be replaced by Robinho. This pushed Tevez into the main striker role, as opposed to supporting a player like Benjani or Adebayor.
All the players that had earned such praise in the last few weeks managed to give performances that were shadows of what they are capable off. The promising midfield duo of De Jong and Barry were particularly poor, both were comprehensively outplayed in the center of the park by an admittedly superior Everton side. Bellamy worked hard as always, but ultimately failed to contribute, and for all his huffing and puffing since the departure about Hughes about almost expecting a position in the side week in week out, was almost as ineffective as Robinho.
The two goals conceded were both from set pieces, the first from a free kick, given away by contender for clumsiest defender of the year, Zabaleta, and the second a silly penalty given away by Micah Richards.
As disappointing as the whole performance was, lets not get carried away. This defeat was only the third of the term, equal best with Chelsea, and came on a weekend where Liverpool and Tottenham both drew in games they would probably be expected to win, and at the time of writting, Aston Villa are also drawing at West Ham. What is more important is that Mancini learns about his squad in advance of the important semi final on Tuesday.
Friday, 15 January 2010
Everton Preview
Today sees City travel to Everton, in what is widely considered Mancini's toughest game since taking charge almost one month ago.
We are unfortunate to be facing Everton now, as players return from injury, and they put in some resurgent performances, particularly against Arsenal. Goodison Park is a tough place to go on a cold winter afternoon, and i'm sure Moyes will be after a chance to one up City, whom he slated (rather ridiculously in my opinion) over the pursuit of Lescott earlier this season.
Whilst our injury list is thinning, this game comes too soon for Stephen Ireland, Wayne Bridge or new signing Patrick Vieira. With the important game against United coming up on Tuesday, I would expect Bellamy to be rested, with SWP returning to the side. Santa Cruz should also be available. Mancini spoke in his press conference yesterday about the possibility of Robinho playing in this game, but I do not believe he will start. This afternoons game will be a physical battle, and I do not believe its a game in which he would perform.
So here is my guess for the team:
------------Given------------
Zab--Richards--Kompany--Garrido
------De Jong---Barry----------
SWP--------Tevez---------Petrov
------------RSC----------------
I think this will be a tight game, and I can see a score draw. 1-1.
We are unfortunate to be facing Everton now, as players return from injury, and they put in some resurgent performances, particularly against Arsenal. Goodison Park is a tough place to go on a cold winter afternoon, and i'm sure Moyes will be after a chance to one up City, whom he slated (rather ridiculously in my opinion) over the pursuit of Lescott earlier this season.
Whilst our injury list is thinning, this game comes too soon for Stephen Ireland, Wayne Bridge or new signing Patrick Vieira. With the important game against United coming up on Tuesday, I would expect Bellamy to be rested, with SWP returning to the side. Santa Cruz should also be available. Mancini spoke in his press conference yesterday about the possibility of Robinho playing in this game, but I do not believe he will start. This afternoons game will be a physical battle, and I do not believe its a game in which he would perform.
So here is my guess for the team:
------------Given------------
Zab--Richards--Kompany--Garrido
------De Jong---Barry----------
SWP--------Tevez---------Petrov
------------RSC----------------
I think this will be a tight game, and I can see a score draw. 1-1.
Vieira Set for FA Cup Debut
Mancini has stated in an interview on the official site that new signing Patrick Vieira will not feature in the games against Everton, or the first leg of the Carling Cup. If all goes well, he is expected to play in the FA Cup against Scunthorpe.
In other injury news, Stephen Ireland is possibly in line to return against United on Tuesday, with Onuoha and Bridge also close to returning.
In other injury news, Stephen Ireland is possibly in line to return against United on Tuesday, with Onuoha and Bridge also close to returning.
Thursday, 14 January 2010
Sturridge Fee Set
The fee for Daniel Sturridge has been set by a tribunal. The young city player of 2009 has been valued at an initial fee of £3.5m, which could rise to £6.5m depending on international appearance and first team appearances. City will also get 15% of any sell on fee if Sturridge leaves Chelsea.
This is not a bad arrangement. City had wanted somewhere in the region of £10m, and Chelsea had offered about £3m. With Sturridge likely to get a slice of first team football this month with Drogba at the ACN, the first of these slices of the additional money could be soon coming.
Via BBC Sport
This is not a bad arrangement. City had wanted somewhere in the region of £10m, and Chelsea had offered about £3m. With Sturridge likely to get a slice of first team football this month with Drogba at the ACN, the first of these slices of the additional money could be soon coming.
Via BBC Sport
Wednesday, 13 January 2010
So What Have We Learnt About Mancini?
It has been 25 days since Roberto Mancini was appointed manager of Manchester City following the sacking of Mark Hughes. In those 25 days, we have won 4 games, scored 10 goals, kept 3 clean sheets, picked up 9 points and advanced to the 4th round of the FA Cup. But what have we learnt about the Italian, both in the 360 minutes of football played under him, and the time off the pitch?
As someone who does not follow closely football on the continent, Mancini was an unknown quantity. After a successful spell at Inter, he was out of work for 18 months, in that time being linked to various jobs both here in the premier league, and abroad, including at one point, the vacant Chelsea post. So I was slightly apprehensive when it was officially announced that he would be the man to succeed Hughes, not because he was inexperienced or not a promising manager, simply that it was not someone with the reputation and clout of a Hiddink or a Mourinho. However, Mancini has impressed me over his first few games. Whilst very early in his tenure, and he has yet to come across a major challenge, Mancini has reinstilled some of the belief that had maybe wained over the last few weeks of the Hughes era. Here are some of the key points I have picked up on so far:
- Strong focus on defence . Whilst in general under Hughes this season, scoring goals was not a great issue. However it was the alarming amount conceded that prematurely ended Hughes time at City. Goals conceded against Fulham, Burnley, Liverpool, Bolton, Tottenham and Sunderland in particular stand out as examples of a £50m+ defence not performing anywhere near the standards expected. From the start, Mancini has put great emphasis on defense. There have been reports of extended defensive training for the squad, and it has had an instant impact. Even with a make shift defense, we kept clean sheets in all but one match so far under Mancini, and the one goal conceded can be put down mostly to an individual error and lapse in concentration. Perhaps one of the most telling things about Mancini was in his post match interview after the Blackburn game, whilst lavishing praise on the excellent Tevez, made a point of stating he was not happy, as the team had conceded a goal.
- Not afraid to make tactical changes on the fly. Most apparent in the game against Stoke. Started the game as 4-3-3 and changed to a 4-4-2 when this was not working. He also made some important tactical substitutions, bringing on the taller and more physical Micah Richards for Sylvinho towards the end of the game to prevent the aerial bombardment expected as Stoke exerted the pressure. One common complaint leveled against Hughes was that he had no plan B, and was too eager to push forward at all times, even when coming into the closing stages of a match with the lead. Mancini has rebalanced the tactics of the side, and shown a good aptitude for game winning tactics.
- Picking by performance, not reputation. If you had said that there would be a game where Benjani, Garrido and to a lesser extend Petrov had started for City this season I would have said you were crazy. But that is the situation we are in under Mancini. Whilst some of these changes are down to injuries or unavailability (I cannot see Benjani starting ahead of a fit RSC or Adebayor), it still says something that he is not picking by reputation alone, and that all players are clearly being given a chance under the new boss.
- Focus on Youth. The youth set up of the club is something to be very proud of. Mancini clearly recognizes this. It is great to see a talented young player like Boyata be given a chance in the FA Cup, along with the likes of Weiss. Whilst this is again partly down to the injuries affecting the club, it is great to see Mancini value this part of our club.
- Looks good in a scarf. So good, you can get your own.
Mancini has started brightly, he is the first ever Manchester City manager to win their first four games. And whilst those wins have not come up against the best opposition he will face in the job, it is the things we have learnt about the man that are important. If what we have seen continues, I think the future is looking promising under Mancini.
As someone who does not follow closely football on the continent, Mancini was an unknown quantity. After a successful spell at Inter, he was out of work for 18 months, in that time being linked to various jobs both here in the premier league, and abroad, including at one point, the vacant Chelsea post. So I was slightly apprehensive when it was officially announced that he would be the man to succeed Hughes, not because he was inexperienced or not a promising manager, simply that it was not someone with the reputation and clout of a Hiddink or a Mourinho. However, Mancini has impressed me over his first few games. Whilst very early in his tenure, and he has yet to come across a major challenge, Mancini has reinstilled some of the belief that had maybe wained over the last few weeks of the Hughes era. Here are some of the key points I have picked up on so far:
- Strong focus on defence . Whilst in general under Hughes this season, scoring goals was not a great issue. However it was the alarming amount conceded that prematurely ended Hughes time at City. Goals conceded against Fulham, Burnley, Liverpool, Bolton, Tottenham and Sunderland in particular stand out as examples of a £50m+ defence not performing anywhere near the standards expected. From the start, Mancini has put great emphasis on defense. There have been reports of extended defensive training for the squad, and it has had an instant impact. Even with a make shift defense, we kept clean sheets in all but one match so far under Mancini, and the one goal conceded can be put down mostly to an individual error and lapse in concentration. Perhaps one of the most telling things about Mancini was in his post match interview after the Blackburn game, whilst lavishing praise on the excellent Tevez, made a point of stating he was not happy, as the team had conceded a goal.
- Not afraid to make tactical changes on the fly. Most apparent in the game against Stoke. Started the game as 4-3-3 and changed to a 4-4-2 when this was not working. He also made some important tactical substitutions, bringing on the taller and more physical Micah Richards for Sylvinho towards the end of the game to prevent the aerial bombardment expected as Stoke exerted the pressure. One common complaint leveled against Hughes was that he had no plan B, and was too eager to push forward at all times, even when coming into the closing stages of a match with the lead. Mancini has rebalanced the tactics of the side, and shown a good aptitude for game winning tactics.
- Picking by performance, not reputation. If you had said that there would be a game where Benjani, Garrido and to a lesser extend Petrov had started for City this season I would have said you were crazy. But that is the situation we are in under Mancini. Whilst some of these changes are down to injuries or unavailability (I cannot see Benjani starting ahead of a fit RSC or Adebayor), it still says something that he is not picking by reputation alone, and that all players are clearly being given a chance under the new boss.
- Focus on Youth. The youth set up of the club is something to be very proud of. Mancini clearly recognizes this. It is great to see a talented young player like Boyata be given a chance in the FA Cup, along with the likes of Weiss. Whilst this is again partly down to the injuries affecting the club, it is great to see Mancini value this part of our club.
- Looks good in a scarf. So good, you can get your own.
Mancini has started brightly, he is the first ever Manchester City manager to win their first four games. And whilst those wins have not come up against the best opposition he will face in the job, it is the things we have learnt about the man that are important. If what we have seen continues, I think the future is looking promising under Mancini.
Tuesday, 12 January 2010
Blackburn Player Ratings
Given- 6. One good save when on the edge of the box. No particularly exceptional saves. Could have been more vocal on a couple of occasions where mix ups lead to soft corners.
Zabaleta- 5. His poorest performance recently. Looked shaky defensively, and was caught out a few times. A few good passes when going forward. Would expect him to be a casualty of an injury free defense.
Richards- 8. A completely different than the one that started the season (United game in particular). Very solid defensively, and an excellent barnstorming run forward to slot in Benjani, and stayed alert enough to finish well. One of the winners of the Mancini Era thus far.
Kompany- 7. Again, looked very solid in the middle of the park. Watching him play filled me with more confidence than any other player in those positions thus far this season. Made a costly mistake that lead to Blackburns goal and possible resurgence.
Garrido- 6. An unremarkable performance. Looked better going forward than defending. One I would expect to drop to the bench when Bridge returns from injury, to be used as a sub for midfield.
Petrov- 6. Not his best performance this season. Played on the right wing for most of the game, and played some good balls in, but nothing to suggest he should start ahead of a fit SWP.
De Jong- 7. A solid, if unremarkable performance. Broke up a physical Blackburn side in the middle of the park and played some good balls. Gave away a few silly fouls in the first half, but im not sure if he wasn't just announcing his intent.
Barry- 7. Similar to De Jong. A very solid performance in the middle of the park. Broke up the Blackburn movement forward well, and played some good balls forward.
Bellamy- 5. Quiet. Started on the right, but soon shifted to the left. Some good wing work, but nothing extraordinary.
Tevez- 9.5. Outstanding. All over the pitch, always looking for the ball, willing to give the killer pass, and world class finishing. Fully deserved his hat trick, could have easily had 5. If he stays in this form, contender for player of the season.
Benjani- 5. Perhaps harsh. Set up the first two goals, albeit by missing shots he should have buried. Good strength for the third however, but looked slow and lacking sharpness, which is to be expected when you are 13 months without a game. Would expect him to lose his place to RSC or Adebayor when available.
Subs
Santa Cruz- 6. A fairly average performance. Selfish on one chance where he could have slipped Tevez in.
Robinho- 6.5. Looked hungry. Still issues defending (we looked weakest just after he game on). A good shot from distance. Clear he is still recovering from three months out, and lacking confidence. Needs game time.
Botaya- NA. Too late to mark.
Zabaleta- 5. His poorest performance recently. Looked shaky defensively, and was caught out a few times. A few good passes when going forward. Would expect him to be a casualty of an injury free defense.
Richards- 8. A completely different than the one that started the season (United game in particular). Very solid defensively, and an excellent barnstorming run forward to slot in Benjani, and stayed alert enough to finish well. One of the winners of the Mancini Era thus far.
Kompany- 7. Again, looked very solid in the middle of the park. Watching him play filled me with more confidence than any other player in those positions thus far this season. Made a costly mistake that lead to Blackburns goal and possible resurgence.
Garrido- 6. An unremarkable performance. Looked better going forward than defending. One I would expect to drop to the bench when Bridge returns from injury, to be used as a sub for midfield.
Petrov- 6. Not his best performance this season. Played on the right wing for most of the game, and played some good balls in, but nothing to suggest he should start ahead of a fit SWP.
De Jong- 7. A solid, if unremarkable performance. Broke up a physical Blackburn side in the middle of the park and played some good balls. Gave away a few silly fouls in the first half, but im not sure if he wasn't just announcing his intent.
Barry- 7. Similar to De Jong. A very solid performance in the middle of the park. Broke up the Blackburn movement forward well, and played some good balls forward.
Bellamy- 5. Quiet. Started on the right, but soon shifted to the left. Some good wing work, but nothing extraordinary.
Tevez- 9.5. Outstanding. All over the pitch, always looking for the ball, willing to give the killer pass, and world class finishing. Fully deserved his hat trick, could have easily had 5. If he stays in this form, contender for player of the season.
Benjani- 5. Perhaps harsh. Set up the first two goals, albeit by missing shots he should have buried. Good strength for the third however, but looked slow and lacking sharpness, which is to be expected when you are 13 months without a game. Would expect him to lose his place to RSC or Adebayor when available.
Subs
Santa Cruz- 6. A fairly average performance. Selfish on one chance where he could have slipped Tevez in.
Robinho- 6.5. Looked hungry. Still issues defending (we looked weakest just after he game on). A good shot from distance. Clear he is still recovering from three months out, and lacking confidence. Needs game time.
Botaya- NA. Too late to mark.
Manchester City 4- 1 Blackburn Rovers
Mancini makes it four wins out of four. A solid performance in all areas.
Monday, 11 January 2010
Blackburn Preview
With the Carling Cup semi-final postponed, Roberto Mancini has had a full week with his squad ahead of tonights game against Blackburn at Eastlands, although the weather will have no doubt limited the training the squad has been able to do. The game, which at the time of writing is still expected to go ahead, despite cold and icy conditions up and down the country, is the first since Patrick Vieira joined from Inter Milan, although he is not expected to feature due to injury. Shaun Wright-Phillips is also expected to be fit, and RSC is an outside chance to feature, as he battles to overcome his own injuries.
With our injuries, and players off in the African Cup of Nations, or on indefinite leave, Mancini is again limited in the choices he has to field in this game. Despite that, I would not expect Benjani or Weiss to hold onto their positions in the starting eleven. Whilst possible that Boyata will be handed a home debut, I would expect him to drop back to the bench, with Richards and Kompany the central defensive partnership. Zabaleta and either Sylvinho or Garrido should play in the full back positions.
In midfield, the sound partnership of Barry and De Jong will remain as holding midfield players. Ahead of them, I expect Petrov to keep his place after some solid performances, likely playing on the right wing. Bellamy should play on the opposite flank, with Tevez ahead of them. It would not surprise me if Robinho plays, and I believe he should start. He has had alot of time sidelined through injury, and needs game time, and a home game against Blackburn is a good chance for him to get some minutes on the clock and build up some confidence. He has shown signs in his last few appearances of improvement, particularly in this new more tactically solid side under Roberto Mancini. Playing in the hole behind Tevez will hopefully bring out some of his creativity, as too often he was marginalized on the wing. I would expect him to come off for Wright-Phillips in the second half.
So, all things considered, here is my team prediction:
--------------Given--------------
Zab---Richards--Kompany---Sylvinho
-------De Jong----Barry----------
Petrov--------Robinho------Bellamy
---------------Tevez--------------
I think this will be a tight game, but I think City will win 2-0.
With our injuries, and players off in the African Cup of Nations, or on indefinite leave, Mancini is again limited in the choices he has to field in this game. Despite that, I would not expect Benjani or Weiss to hold onto their positions in the starting eleven. Whilst possible that Boyata will be handed a home debut, I would expect him to drop back to the bench, with Richards and Kompany the central defensive partnership. Zabaleta and either Sylvinho or Garrido should play in the full back positions.
In midfield, the sound partnership of Barry and De Jong will remain as holding midfield players. Ahead of them, I expect Petrov to keep his place after some solid performances, likely playing on the right wing. Bellamy should play on the opposite flank, with Tevez ahead of them. It would not surprise me if Robinho plays, and I believe he should start. He has had alot of time sidelined through injury, and needs game time, and a home game against Blackburn is a good chance for him to get some minutes on the clock and build up some confidence. He has shown signs in his last few appearances of improvement, particularly in this new more tactically solid side under Roberto Mancini. Playing in the hole behind Tevez will hopefully bring out some of his creativity, as too often he was marginalized on the wing. I would expect him to come off for Wright-Phillips in the second half.
So, all things considered, here is my team prediction:
--------------Given--------------
Zab---Richards--Kompany---Sylvinho
-------De Jong----Barry----------
Petrov--------Robinho------Bellamy
---------------Tevez--------------
I think this will be a tight game, but I think City will win 2-0.
Friday, 8 January 2010
Breaking: Togo Team Bus Attacked
Vieira Signs: Six Month Deal with Option of Twelve More
It was confirmed earlier that Roberto Mancini has completed his first signing as manager of City, the French midfielder Patrick Vieira. Vieira has signed on a six month deal, with the option of another twelve months. In an article on the official site, Vieira says
Speaking about the singing, Mancini said
This is an interesting signing, but by no means a bad one. With the injuries ravaging our squad, all areas are looking thin. Whilst I am not sure how many games he will be starting, having a player with the pedigree of Vieira in the squad is surely an asset. Im glad that Mancini's first major act as City boss wasn't to launch a raid on one the continents high flyers (need we be reminded of the Eto'o foul up over the summer). This is a sensible signing to boost the depth in the midfield. Having won the world cup with France in '98, and a variety of other trophies, Vieira is also very experienced, something perhaps lacking in the middle of the park for City. I have no doubt that this experience and leadership will be beneficial to the club.
Vieira, who will wear the number 24 shirt, is a doubt for Monday's visit of Blackburn with an injury sustained during his final match for Inter earlier in the week.
"When I look at the players City have got, I think we can achieve a lot. I strongly believe we are not out of the race to win the title but we need to believe the club can do it, because we can."
Speaking about the singing, Mancini said
"Patrick is one of the great players of his era with every almost every honour in the game against his name. I am sure City fans will welcome him warmly and appreciate the contribution he will make."
This is an interesting signing, but by no means a bad one. With the injuries ravaging our squad, all areas are looking thin. Whilst I am not sure how many games he will be starting, having a player with the pedigree of Vieira in the squad is surely an asset. Im glad that Mancini's first major act as City boss wasn't to launch a raid on one the continents high flyers (need we be reminded of the Eto'o foul up over the summer). This is a sensible signing to boost the depth in the midfield. Having won the world cup with France in '98, and a variety of other trophies, Vieira is also very experienced, something perhaps lacking in the middle of the park for City. I have no doubt that this experience and leadership will be beneficial to the club.
Vieira, who will wear the number 24 shirt, is a doubt for Monday's visit of Blackburn with an injury sustained during his final match for Inter earlier in the week.
Thursday, 7 January 2010
Vieira to Have Medical, 18 Month Contract to Follow
Patrick Vieira is set to have a medical at some point today, with a view to signing an 18 month contract.
Speaking of the move, Vieira said
It looks like the veteran Frenchman could be available for the Blackburn game, even if only from the bench.
Speaking of the move, Vieira said
"I set myself an objective, I want to go to the World Cup," he told Eurosport.
"The important thing for me is to go to Manchester City and to show the coach (Roberto Mancini) I'm the same player as when he was in charge of Inter."
It looks like the veteran Frenchman could be available for the Blackburn game, even if only from the bench.
Wednesday, 6 January 2010
Mourinho: 'Vieira has played last game for Inter'
So according to Inter bose Jose Mourinho, rumored City target Patrick Vieira has played his last game for Inter Milan. Speaking after Inter's 1-0 victory earlier today, he was quoted as saying:
If the club in question is City, which at this point, seems a certainty, I would expect the deal to be finalized by the end of the week. I dont know if this will be soon enough for Vieira to be playing on Monday night, but we shall see.
I should give a special mention to Vieira, who certainly played his last game with us.
"I don't know where he will go, maybe to England which he likes a lot, but we should thank him for what he has done in these years at Inter.
"The club decided not to renew his contract, which is coming to an end, and to accept the offer of another club."
If the club in question is City, which at this point, seems a certainty, I would expect the deal to be finalized by the end of the week. I dont know if this will be soon enough for Vieira to be playing on Monday night, but we shall see.
Tuesday, 5 January 2010
Carling Cup Semi's Rearranged
With the weather affecting the games all across the country, the dates for the two legs of the semi-final are now:
The game against Stoke scheduled for the 27th to be played at a later date.
With the injuries affecting the squad and SAF's anger at the team that lost in the third round of the FA cup, this probably works out well for us.
So the fixtures for the rest of January look like this:
Interestingly, all city games bar the Poppy one are on television this month.
Home Leg: Tuesday 19th January 7:45pm KO
Away Leg: Wednesday 27th January 8pm KO
The game against Stoke scheduled for the 27th to be played at a later date.
With the injuries affecting the squad and SAF's anger at the team that lost in the third round of the FA cup, this probably works out well for us.
So the fixtures for the rest of January look like this:
Mon 11th - Blackburn (H)
Sat 16th - Everton (A)
Tue 19th - United (H) CC Semi Leg 1
Sun 24th - Scunthorpe (A) FA CUP 4th Round
Wed 27th - United (A) CC Semi Leg 2
Sun 31st - Portsmouth (H)
Interestingly, all city games bar the Poppy one are on television this month.
Semi Final in Danger UPDATE
With the weather already postponing the Villa Blackburn game, news hits the official site that the first leg semi might also be postponed.
Hopefully the weather clears and the game can go ahead. Updates as they come in.
UPDATE 13:51 Yup, game is off.
Hopefully the weather clears and the game can go ahead. Updates as they come in.
UPDATE 13:51 Yup, game is off.
Monday, 4 January 2010
Injury Update
Last night SSN reported that Micah Richards was a major doubt for Wednesday's game. However the official site this afternoon suggests that both he and Robinho are hopefully going to be fit for the derby game.
Mancini also seems hopeful about SWP's chances of making it into the squad for the game, although RSC is less likely to feature. Onuoha is another unavailable, in addition of course to Stephen Ireland.
As for Boyata, who made his first senior appearance in a City shirt at the Riverside on saturday, Mancini has stated he is very much in contention to play.
So with the injury list growing, I would assume the team will line up like this.
The three games Mancini has been in charge for, the front players have all had very free roles, so I would expect those front four to be quite fluid. De Jong and Barry as the two holding midfielder's and the makeshift back four. The full back positions are question marks, but I don't think Mancini will play Sylvinho against the pace of United.
Mancini also seems hopeful about SWP's chances of making it into the squad for the game, although RSC is less likely to feature. Onuoha is another unavailable, in addition of course to Stephen Ireland.
As for Boyata, who made his first senior appearance in a City shirt at the Riverside on saturday, Mancini has stated he is very much in contention to play.
"There is a good chance that I will play Boyata again because I don't have a lot of defenders at the moment. He could have that chance because he played very well at Middlesbrough, but I will have to wait and see until after training on Tuesday."
So with the injury list growing, I would assume the team will line up like this.
----------------Given----------------
Richards---Boyata---Kompany---Garrido
---------De Jong------Barry----------
Petrov ------- Robbie -------- Bellamy
----------------Tevez-----------------
The three games Mancini has been in charge for, the front players have all had very free roles, so I would expect those front four to be quite fluid. De Jong and Barry as the two holding midfielder's and the makeshift back four. The full back positions are question marks, but I don't think Mancini will play Sylvinho against the pace of United.
Transfer Rumours - 04/01/2010
Couple of rumours emerged this morning and over the weekend:
Im not convinced on the first two- whilst Moses is indeed a talented player, with Adebayor, Tevez, RSC, Bellemy and Robiniho available for the club, its hard to see him getting any game time. So unless the club buys him then loans him straight back out for a few years, its hard to see this being a worth while signing.
Similarly with Vieira, I can't see him fitting in. From his first three games, Mancini seems to like the defensive minded Barry and De Jong playing together, with Ireland and Petrov playing ahead of them. With SWP to return from injury, and Garrido and Kompany options to play in the middle, there doesn't seem to be any room for the veteran midfielder.
Ansaldi is a possibility. Mancini has tried Sylvinho, Zabaleta and Garrido at left various points over his games so far, so this definatly seems like a position he could look to strengthen. If he does come however, what does this mean for Wayne Bridges hopes of making to South Africa in the summer?
- First up, Victor Moses, the rated Crystal Palace striker. The Daily Mail has city contemplating making an offer, but Palace's £5m price tag is apparently more than the club is willing to pay.
- The next rumoured target is Patrick Vieira. Mancini was the manager who purchased Vieira for Inter back in 2006. The soon to be 34 year midfielder is reported to be coming to Eastlands on a loan deal, as he looks to improve his chances of representing France this summer.
UPDATE This popped up again in the MEN, again talking about a loan deal. Interestingly, the article mentions he could be available to face United on Wednesday
- Rubin Kazan's £6 rated defender Cristian Ansaldi is also another reported target for City this January. The full back positions are said to be an area Mancini wants to strengthen, with the Argentinian supposed high on the list of priorities.
Im not convinced on the first two- whilst Moses is indeed a talented player, with Adebayor, Tevez, RSC, Bellemy and Robiniho available for the club, its hard to see him getting any game time. So unless the club buys him then loans him straight back out for a few years, its hard to see this being a worth while signing.
Similarly with Vieira, I can't see him fitting in. From his first three games, Mancini seems to like the defensive minded Barry and De Jong playing together, with Ireland and Petrov playing ahead of them. With SWP to return from injury, and Garrido and Kompany options to play in the middle, there doesn't seem to be any room for the veteran midfielder.
Ansaldi is a possibility. Mancini has tried Sylvinho, Zabaleta and Garrido at left various points over his games so far, so this definatly seems like a position he could look to strengthen. If he does come however, what does this mean for Wayne Bridges hopes of making to South Africa in the summer?
Sunday, 3 January 2010
United Team for Wednesday
Speaking to the BBC after United's loss to Leeds in the FA cup this afternoon, assistant manager Mike Phelan admits they may have to think 'a bit differently' about their team selection for the Carling Cup semi final on Wednesday.
This is a potential turn around from this morning when Fergie again stated he will be playing his 'kids'. We will have to wait and see, but with SAF smarting over such an early exit, it would not surprise me if United came out with a point to prove at Eastlands on Wednesday.
This is a potential turn around from this morning when Fergie again stated he will be playing his 'kids'. We will have to wait and see, but with SAF smarting over such an early exit, it would not surprise me if United came out with a point to prove at Eastlands on Wednesday.
Richards Doubt for Wednesday
Sky Sports News is reporting that Micah Richards is a doubt for Wednesday's game.
Whilst it is possible Onuoha will be fit in time, this leaves Vincent Kompany as the only recognized centre back in the squad. Maybe Mancini will give Boyata a baptism of fire with a home début against Manchester United in the league cup semi final?
On a more positive note, Wright-Phillips is hopeful to return to the squad in time.
Whilst it is possible Onuoha will be fit in time, this leaves Vincent Kompany as the only recognized centre back in the squad. Maybe Mancini will give Boyata a baptism of fire with a home début against Manchester United in the league cup semi final?
On a more positive note, Wright-Phillips is hopeful to return to the squad in time.
FA Cup 4th Round
Manchester City will face Scunthorpe for the second time this season, in the 4th Round of the FA cup. City will travel to Scunthorpe on the weekend of the 23rd of January.
The last meeting was the 5-1 victory at Eastlands in the Carling Cup earlier this season.
This is a good tie, albeit away from home.
Source - MCFC Official Site
The last meeting was the 5-1 victory at Eastlands in the Carling Cup earlier this season.
This is a good tie, albeit away from home.
Source - MCFC Official Site
Introduction and Welcome
So hello! If you are reading this, welcome to my brand spanking new blog - The Blue Citizens, providing opinion and commentary on all things Manchester City. I hope you will find the posts hereafter informative and insightful.
Perhaps I should start with some introductions. My name is Matthew Brooks, and I am a computing student. Also, as I hope you have realised by now, a Manchester City fan. If you enjoy my ramblings, you can follow me on twitter at the appropriate @MattBrooks.
You may wonder why I have decided to get into this blogging business. Over the last few months and years, I have started reading a number of Manchester City blogs across the internet, and (the majority of them) have been excellent. Quite simply, I wanted to be involved. Never in recent memory has Manchester City Football Club captured the attention of the public, and with this interest level so high, it is my honour to put my opinions out there for anyone to read.
So there we have it. Im going to start by looking forward to the exciting Carling Cup semi final in the coming week, whilst also following the first transfer window of Roberto Mancini. This month is going to be a defining one in the Abu Dhabi era.
City 'til I Die
Perhaps I should start with some introductions. My name is Matthew Brooks, and I am a computing student. Also, as I hope you have realised by now, a Manchester City fan. If you enjoy my ramblings, you can follow me on twitter at the appropriate @MattBrooks.
You may wonder why I have decided to get into this blogging business. Over the last few months and years, I have started reading a number of Manchester City blogs across the internet, and (the majority of them) have been excellent. Quite simply, I wanted to be involved. Never in recent memory has Manchester City Football Club captured the attention of the public, and with this interest level so high, it is my honour to put my opinions out there for anyone to read.
So there we have it. Im going to start by looking forward to the exciting Carling Cup semi final in the coming week, whilst also following the first transfer window of Roberto Mancini. This month is going to be a defining one in the Abu Dhabi era.
City 'til I Die
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