Jamie Carragher Talks up Liverpool’s Title Aspirations
by Neil JohnstonFiled under: Liverpool, Premier League, Football
The international break is usually a time when most Premier League players not representing their respective countries like to step back from the intense glare of the top-flight spotlight.
Jamie Carragher is clearly one of the exceptions.
Having claimed that England are "cheating" by giving the country's top football job to a foreigner, the long-serving Liverpool defender has now disagreed with Luis Suarez's suggestions that Kenny Dalglish's side are out of the title race.
Carragher's team-mate had claimed Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea are "unreachable".
But Carragher is refusing to give up on the one medal which has eluded him throughout his career at Anfield.
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The 33-year-old has helped his club win two FA Cups, two League Cups, one Champions League, one Uefa Cup and one Uefa Super Cup since making his debut in 1997.
But Carragher has yet to win the title. His hopes of ending that sequence already appear difficult seven games into the current campaign.
Liverpool trail United and City, who remain unbeaten, by six points after defeats to Tottenham and Stoke.
Yet with Sir Alex Ferguson's reigning champions arriving at Anfield on October 15, when Steven Gerrard could make his first start for six months after groin surgery, Carragher believes it is far too soon to write off Liverpool's title chances.
After United's visit, Dalglish's side have a run of winnable games against Norwich (home), West Brom (away) and Swansea (home) before a crunch few days which could define their season.
They travel to Chelsea on November 20 before entertaining Roberto Mancini's expensively-assembled City side on November 27.
"The last couple of years we have finished sixth and seventh so for us to get in the top four, we will be pleased with that this season," said Carragher.
"But at Christmas, if we are two or three points behind Manchester United or Manchester City, we are going to say we want to win the league.
"I always change my opinion of what I want us to do depending on where we are in the league.
"At this moment people will probably say we are in the race with Spurs and Arsenal (for fourth) because we are a little bit off Mancheter City and Manchester United.
"But over the next month, if we can catch them up. . .
Has Mario Balotelli Turned over a New Leaf in his Colourful City Career?
by Darren WitcoopFiled under: Manchester City, Premier League, Football
Before a certain Carlos Tevez made the headlines for his refusal to play in Germany, it was always Mario Balotelli who appeared destined to court controversy on a semi-permanent basis at Manchester City.
The Italian striker has endured his fair share of run-ins, both on and off the pitch, during his one-year stay at the Etihad Stadium.
From red cards, showboating in a pre-season friendly to outlandish boastful comments about himself, Balotelli has endured enough criticism to last a whole career, let alone a short stint at Manchester City.
Yet if there was a time for the Manchester City striker to create further strife and enhance his bad-boy reputation, it would be this season.
Pushed further down the pecking order, the £24 million signing has been a fringe figure.
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Yet, unlike the wantaway Tevez with his transfer requests and his alleged refusal to come on as a substitute in last week's Champions League defeat at Bayern Munich, there has been no sulking and no problems so far this season from the young Italian.
Perhaps a growing sign of maturity as he knuckles down to his job at hand?
Well, possibly it is too soon to draw that conclusion, but perhaps the penny is finally beginning to drop for the sinner-to-saint Balotelli.
Three goals in his last three games, including making the all-important breakthrough against Everton after coming off the bench, Balotelli is making small strides to suggest he has turned over a new leaf.
After his goal, which even raised a rarely-seen smile, against Blackburn on Saturday, Balotelli's strike rate is 12 goals in 23 starts and 10 substitute appearances.
Not bad for a player who still most likely yearns to return to his homeland, but simply claims to be misunderstood.
Assistant coach David Platt told the Manchester Evening News: "He now has consistency day in day out and is a pleasure to be around.
"For six or seven weeks, there have been no problems whatsoever, either on or off the pitch.
"He's got all the attributes. It's a case of putting it together week in week out, and he's close to doing that."
While Tevez has been interviewed as part of the disciplinary process that threatens to end his Manchester City career for good, his fellow countryman Sergio Aguero has sustained a groin injury.
It's not known how long the Argentine striker will be out for, even if he has joined up with his South American team-mates for the World Cup qualifying games.
But with Edin Dzeko blotting his copybook with his act of petulance in the wake of Tevez's Munich mutiny, Balotelli will be waiting in the wings and is doing himself no harm whatsoever.
It must have been difficult for Balotelli to be left kicking his heels on the sidelines while the likes of David Silva, Aguero and Dzeko have stolen the limelight.
But this could just be his chance.
The last thing he would have wanted now would have been the international break, but he will know he is back in Roberto Mancini's good books.
How long that remains the case is up to him.
But if he can continue to score the goals, and more significantly stay out of trouble, then Balotelli could finally show signs, rather than the odd glimpse, of the top class player Mancini has always talked about having at his disposal.
Blackburn v Man City Preview: Mancini Insists Carlos Tevez ‘Not My Problem’
by Neil JohnstonFiled under: Blackburn Rovers, Manchester City, Premier League, Football, Match Previews
PREMIER LEAGUE: EWOOD PARK, SATURDAY OCTOBER 1, 2011. KICK-OFF: 1500 BST
The drama which unfolded on the visitors substitutes bench at the Allianz Arena may have deflected attention away from Roberto Mancini's tactical failings in Germany.
But there will be no hiding place for the Manchester City manager and his players when they look to put a terrible week behind them against Blackburn.
Mancini will not need reminding that the last time his side returned to domestic action after a Champions League game they blew a 2-0 lead at Fulham.
And that was with Edin Dzeko and Carlos Tevez in the side.
Tevez will definitely be missing as an investigation into his alleged refusal to come on as a substitute during the 2-0 defeat against Bayern Munich continues.
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And Bosnian striker Dzeko is sweating on a place in the side after his behaviour when hauled off in Germany.
Dzeko has since issued an apology, but it remains to be seen whether Mancini, who was less than impressed with the players's actions, is in a forgiving mood after the most testing week of his reign.
Yet Mancini knows that failure to defeat Blackburn will only increase the pressure, and he may have no choice but to play Dzeko, who scored the winner in the corresponding fixture last seaon.
Mancini is not the only manager feeling the heat.
Despite masterminding a dramatic comeback victory over Arsenal recently, Blackburn's Steve Kean remains a manager under pressure after last week's disappointing 3-1 defeat against Newcastle.
There will be a familiar face missing from the home dug-out.
Assistant manager John Jensen had his contract extended in the summer, but the club confirmed his departure on Thursday.
The reasoning behind the decision has yet to be discovered but Kean, who brought the Dane to the club in January, will be hoping it does not disrupt his players.
Key Match-up: Yakubu v Joe Hart: City keeper Hart was one of the few positives from the defeat in Germany, with the England international making a host of quality saves. And while Hart will not expect to be as busy at Ewood Park, he will have to be on alert to ensure Yakubu does not add to the two goals he scored against Arsenal.
Form Guide: City have scored 19 goals in six league games, their only blip coming in a draw away at Fulham. A hard-fought win over Everton last week proved their ability to grind out results.But will they suffer from a Munich hangover? After a first league victory against Arsenal, Blackburn returned to old habits last week with a 3-1 defeat at Newcastle.
Odds: Blackburn 5/1, Manchester City 8/13, Draw 11/4
BLACKBURN:
Kean reckons he may have to turn to fringe players as his injury problems mount.
Michel Salgado and Gael Givet both picked up injuries during the defeat at Newcastle and are doubts, while Ryan Nelsen continues to struggle with a knee problem.
Kean said: "Some of the players who perhaps haven't had much of a run this season could get their chance. Obviously if the injuries tot up then the lads that have the opportunity have to grab that.
"If they get given the chance then they have to take it. These are the times when you look at the depth of the squad. Thankfully we have other players in these positions and they can come in and play."
Kean admits his side also have to put last week's poor display at Newcastle behind them as they prepare to welcome City.
"It was a disappointing result because we felt we could go to Newcastle and get something. I do think though the way we came back into the game was positive.
"But we will go again against Manchester City full of confidence."
Strategy: Rovers know they are up against it, but will look to take advantage after the traumatic week their opponents have endured. Yakubu is expected to start up front on his own despite being somewhat isolated last week at Newcastle.
Injury Update: Salgado (hamstring) and Givet (leg) are doubts, while Nelson (knee) remains sidelined. David Dunn (calf), Morten Gamst Pedersen (thigh) and David Goodwillie (thigh) are expected to be available after injury.
MANCHESTER CITY:
Mancini has continued his hardline stance over the ongoing row regarding Tevez's alleged refusal to play by insisting it is 'not my problem'.
The Italian claimed that Tevez was 'finished' after the Bayern Munich defeat.
Tevez in a statement blamed "confusion on the bench" for the "misunderstanding", denying he refused to play in Munich.
But Mancini does not appear to have softened his views over the matter.
"It is finished," said Mancini.
"I am the manager, our focus is regarding the Premier League, the Champions League and the FA Cup.
"Other things - it is not my problem."
Tevez has been suspended for two weeks by City as they investigate the chain of events before making a decision on the future of the Argentina international.
Mancini is trying to draw a line under the unsavoury incident and insists he is focused on helping City achieve success.
"Blackburn is an important game," he added at the pre-match press conference where the media were warned not to ask questions about Tevez.
"It will be difficult but we have to try and win."
Strategy: This is all about City attempting to return to show it is business as usual following this week's extraordinary events. A strong performance is required to send out a clear message that Mancini's is squad remains united. Mario Balotelli may make his first league start while the quality of David Silva and Sergio Aguero ought to prove too much for Blackburn.
Why Carlos Tevez’s Punishment Shows Roberto Mancini is in Complete Control
by John PercyFiled under: Manchester City, Premier League, Football
Player power is becoming an increasing source of frustration and concern for managers in the league of cash and controversy but Roberto Mancini's triumph in his battle with Carlos Tevez illustrates he has the unequivocal backing of Manchester City.
For the sake of the sport, Mancini desperately needed a sign from owner Sheikh Mansoor that he was in charge of the situation and City have moved swiftly, and impressively, to hit Tevez with the punishment his incredible show of insubordination deserved.
There may have been a few doubts lingering in the back of Mancini's mind after his astonishing verdict on the future of Tevez after the Champions League tie at Bayern Munich, especially after the departure of confidante Garry Cook.
But this proves without any doubt that he is in complete control at the Etihad Stadium, with Tevez facing an uncomfortable stint in the wilderness.
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The matter has not been allowed to drift. Tevez has not been able to make any more interviews, while his much maligned advisor Kia Joorabchian's statement only opened the situation up to ridicule.
City deserve credit for acting quickly and dealing with the matter in the savagely effective fashion that is the mark of a big club on the up.
The Argentinean striker is now so out in the cold he will probably require treatment for frostbite in the next few days.
Tevez has been suspended for two weeks and told to stay away from training, while City conduct an investigation into his alleged refusal to come on as a substitute.
The next logical step will surely be negotiations to terminate his contract and Mancini will be revered by his Premier League peers for taking a stand.
City's statement read: "Manchester City can confirm that striker Carlos Tevez has been suspended until further notice for a maximum period of two weeks.
"The player's suspension is pending a full review into his alleged conduct during Tuesday evening's 2-0 defeat to Bayern Munich.
"The player will not be considered for selection or take part in training whilst the review is under way."
Any sympathy that Tevez may have had from City's fans has been extinguished after his conduct in Munich and there have even been reports that he required a police escort from Manchester Airport on Wednesday.
Man City v Everton Preview: Roberto Mancini Seeks First Win Against Toffees
by Darren WitcoopFiled under: Everton, Manchester City, Premier League, Football, Match Previews
PREMIER LEAGUE: ETIHAD STADIUM, SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2011. KICK OFF: 1245 BST
Given their well publicised financial woes, few Premier League clubs would swap their boardroom position for Everton's.
Yet when it comes to facing Manchester City on the pitch, there would be no shortage of takers seeking the secret to their winning formula.
After achieving an unlikely double last season, David Moyes has enjoyed five wins from the last six games against the cash-rich club.
It's a record nobody in the top-flight can rival. In this meeting between the haves and the have nots, then there is no doubt that Everton has repeatedly struck a blow for the underdog.
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Manchester City continue to spend money freely - while Everton's resources see them forced into the bargain bucket of the loan market.
But as Moyes' side have proven, there's no substitute for a good work ethic and strong team spirit. And Mancini's side can testify to this, having been on the receiving end in recent times more than most.
Key Match-Up: Vincent Kompany v Tim Cahill: Kompany hasn't hit the heights of last season and he will have to be on his guard with Cahill's marauding runs from midfield. The Australian has the knack of find the net against most teams, but he seems to thrive more than most against Manchester City. He has scored four times in total against them, including last season's opener in their 2-1 win at the Etihad Stadium.
Form Guide: Manchester City dropped their first league points of the season last time out, letting slip a two-goal advantage to draw at Fulham. Everton's financial woes have been well documented, but they have not let off-field troubles disrupt their start and lie in seventh spot.
Odds: Manchester City 2/5, Everton 6/1, Draw 7/2
MANCHESTER CITY:
Mancini is understandably keen to end Everton's hoodoo over Manchester City.
He said: "In football it can happen. But it's time to change that.
"We deserved to beat them twice last year. But they are a strong team who work to the end.
"They have good players and a good manager.
"Everton, for me, are one of the best teams in the Premier League. They work from the first minute to 95 minutes. They have good players."
Owen Hagreaves' Carling Cup debut for Manchester City, and his subsequent claim he was treated like a "guinea pig" by former club Manchester United, has hogged the headlines.
But the return of Kolo Toure, after a serving a six months drugs ban, has largely gone unnoticed.
And Mancini said: "It wasn't easy for Kolo as it was his first game back against Birmingham.
"He is an experienced player, and he could play in one of the next two games."
Strategy: Mancini will be desperate to lift the Everton curse and the best way to ease any doubts, given their poor run against them, will be an early goal. If Everton take the lead, those doubts could creep back in. So expect Manchester City to start well and look to open up an advantage - and then ensure they don't squander a lead like they did at Fulham.
Injury Update: Nigel de Jong (foot) is close to a return after a six-week absence. But Adam Johnson (ankle) has emerged as an injury doubt while Hargreaves won't be risked.
EVERTON:
Tim Howard is confident the spirit and determination oozing through Moyes' side will again see them triumph against the world's richest club.
The financial gulf between the two clubs could not be more different, with Moyes forced to endure a summer of financial restraint while Mancini drafted in the likes of Samir Nasri and Sergio Aguero.
Yet Moyes' team are looking for a fifth straight win at City - a remarkable achievement considering where the two clubs are placed in football's rich list.
And Howard believes the Toffees can again upset their big-spending hosts after last season's eye-catching 2-1 win at City.
"Manchester City will be a difficult task," said the United States international keeper.
"But we need to go there and dig in and be resilient. It has worked for us in the past. Last season you could see the elation on all the players' faces. It was such a cold night and our fans were out in their thousands.
"That win really galvanised the club.
"I think that players and fans really embraced that win and it showed that it is not all about money. It is about performance and spirit. We talked about having spirit but we proved it that night."
Strategy: This is the start of a daunting run of fixtures for Everton but you can bet that Moyes and his players are relishing the forthcoming games against Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United. They head to City in confident mood after a five-match unbeaten run. City have scored seven without reply in their two home league games this term. But Everton have players in the shape of Marouane Fellaini and Jack Rodwell who are capable of creating their own problems.
Injury Update: Victor Anichebe remains sidelined with a groin injury while Louis Saha could be available after being left out of the last two squads.
Wigan v Tottenham Preview: More to Come, Insists Emmanuel Adebayor
by Graham ChaseFiled under: Tottenham, Wigan, Premier League, Football, Match Previews
PREMIER LEAGUE: DW STADIUM, SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2011. KICK-OFF: 1500 BST
The sour memories of Wigan's 9-1 hammering at White Hart Lane were largely eroded by picking up four points against Harry Redknapp's side last season.
After losing their opening two matches of the campaign, there was the 1-0 win at Spurs and they also had a goalless draw at the DW Stadium ahead of Tottenham's trip to Real Madrid.
With the transfer window closed, Redknapp will be hoping that the 4-0 hammering of Liverpool is a sign of things to come, while Roberto Martinez is desperate to get some points on the board.
The Latics' decent start has hit the buffers by being knocked out of the Carling Cup at Crystal Palace and Premier League defeats at Manchester City and Everton.
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Key Match-Up: Gary Caldwell v Emmanuel Adebayor. With Antolin Alcaraz, Emmerson Boyce and Steve Gohouri all out injured, Latics captain Caldwell will have a key role against Adebayor. The Togo striker, 27, has managed three goals in his first two appearances for Spurs.
Form Guide: Unbeaten in their first three matches of the season, Wigan have lost three on the trot. Since the 5-1 hammering by Manchester City, Spurs have not conceded in four games, including Premier League wins over Wolves and Liverpool.
Odds: Wigan 3/1, Tottenham 10/11, Draw 5/2.
WIGAN:
For a team that has generally struggled for any kind of consistency in recent years, Wigan have quietly built an unbeaten run that stretches back to February.
Martinez was angered by the capitulation in the 3-0 defeat at City but far happier with the display in the 3-1 loss at Everton, where his team were on level terms until the 84th minute.
The Spaniard rarely discusses his previous assertion that Wigan will definitely finish in the top half of the table but it says much for his team's progress that he expects to pick up three points against Spurs.
The DW Stadium has attracted criticism for so long but Martinez feels it is becoming a stronghold.
Martinez told the club's website: "It seems an eternity away when you play away games, with travelling and we were involved in the League Cup as well.
"It's a little bit of a combination. We feel at home and it's easy to say that 'We're playing at home' but that brings expectations but we believe in the manner that we play, the fans have been fantastic.
"It's easy to see the chemistry that we're getting with the fans, we always play on the front foot and want to control the games and dominate the games and that's been a very positive way to play from our point of view."
Martinez believes Redknapp has picked up the ideal formation and tactics to bring the best out of Adebayor.
"We all know he's an outstanding footballer," Martinez added. "He had great experiences when he went to Real Madrid and obviously Arsenal and Manchester city and he's still at the peak of his career. He's a handful in any system.
"But now he's surrounded by players that get the best out of him and he's working really, really hard with players like Jermain Defoe, Luka Modric and Scott Parker, with the service of Gareth Bale.
"That makes an outstanding combination so he's one of the outstanding players that Spurs have got in their squad."
Strategy: The absence of Hugo Rodallega gives Martinez problems with goal-scoring and some fans will worry about the quality he is able to field in the three-man attacking midfield line behind Franco Di Santo. He may push James McCarthy forward to support Jordi Gomez and Victor Moses, with Mohamed Diame or Hendry Thomas drafted into midfield.
Injury Update: Rodallega will be out for around six weeks with a knee problem sustained at Everton and defenders Alcaraz (thigh) and Boyce (hamstring) but Martinez may recall Gohouri after a calf problem.
TOTTENHAM:
Tottenham striker Adebayor, despite his goalscoring start since arriving on loan from Manchester City, admits he is yet to reach peak fitness.
"It was four months since I played and I think it will take two or three games to be fit," said Adebayor. "Fortunately I had the chance to score on my debut and that gave me more confidence.
"Now I have to keep playing my football. I can't say I'm nearly there because I have to keep working for two or three games.But I'll work hard in training and the rest will follow."
Adebayor was forced to train with the youth team while at City after falling out with manager Roberto Mancini, who is trying to win the league title this year and has started the season strongly.
He added: "Maybe they can get a few injuries. Maybe they will tired. I don't know. At the moment they are playing good football and it's good for everyone to watch on TV.
"At Tottenham we have to keep doing what we're doing. We have great players: Gareth Bale, Luka Modric, Niko Kranjcar, Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Jermain Defoe, I can mention many names.
"We just have to fight and believe we can be in the top four. If we believe we can, then we can do it."
Adebayor has suggested he would be willing to stay at White Hart Lane permanently.
He added: "I'm here for a year and have to enjoy myself. At the end of things the president, vice-president, manager, assistant manager, the fans, they will decide if they want me for another year. At the moment I am here for another year and there is no pressure at all."
Strategy: Spurs will want to pick up where they left off against Liverpool, attacking with pace from all areas. They have pace down the flanks but can also go through the middle.
Injury Update: Michael Dawson, William Gallas, Aaron Lennon and Tom Huddlestone are out.
Video: A Great Start, But Owen Hargreaves Has to Take it a Step at a Time
by Graham ChaseFiled under: Manchester City, Premier League, Football
Despite what Roberto Mancini may say, the 'Owen Hargreaves for England' bandwagon can wait but the midfielder's start to life at the Etihad Stadium could not have gone much better.
Mancini had hoped that Hargreaves would be able to play for between a half and an hour in the Carling Cup tie with Birmingham and it said much for the player's impact that it was almost 60 minutes before he was withdrawn.
By that time he had shown he can still handle the cut and thrust of professional football and had driven in the opening goal from 25 yards after just 16 minutes.
The midfielder, 30, who joined on a free transfer on deadline day after being released by United in the summer, only managed two brief appearances in the past two seasons and had only played five times in three years.
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Mancini claims that his lack of knowledge about Hargreaves meant he felt he had to leave the player out of his Champions League squad but will reassess in the new year.
"At the moment that is the list but in January, maybe it's possible," Mancini said after the 2-0 victory on Wednesday night.
"We didn't know what his condition would be four weeks ago his condition, it was difficult.
"But also now he played only 60 minutes he needs to recover very well. Important we recover him very well. If we recover and he becomes a fantastic player like he was will be important also for England."
No pressure then Owen. England should be at the very back of Hargreaves' mind but there is little doubting that if he can build on the way he performed against Birmingham, he can prove an astute signing for City.
It is unlikely that he will ever be the player that seemed to tear back and forth across the pitch, a little like a dog on a long walk, running twice as far as everyone else, and driving matches.
But against Birmingham he proved he can still snap into tackles and give his team constant forward momentum and he left the field to triumphant chants of 'Fergie sign him up'.
He also played an hour in a practice game last week and we can only assume he will get better from this, although it will be interesting to see how his body responds to its first real test since he limped off after a few minutes after starting in United's 2-1 win over Wolves in November last year.
Unsurprisingly, Hargreaves was more than happy with his first outing in a blue shirt.
Fulham v Manchester City: Sergio Aguero Maintains Maradona Connection
by Mike McGrathFiled under: Fulham, Manchester City, Premier League, Football, Match Previews
PREMIER LEAGUE: CRAVEN COTTAGE, SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 18, 2011. KICK-OFF 1500 BST
Diego Maradona was guest of honour when these two teams played at Craven Cottage last season but his son-in-law will be in the limelight this time.
Sergio Aguero, who is married to Maradona's daughter, has six goals in his four Premier League games for Manchester City since his move from Atletico Madrid before the start of the season.
Aguero has shone as City have claimed maximum points in their four league games, helped by their other key players such as David Silva and Vincent Kompany.
So another win is expected when they face a Fulham team who have yet to record a domestic win and have struggled for a cutting edge in the attacking third of the pitch.
Martin Jol's side started their season early after gaining a place in the Europa League, and he is already juggling his resources and trying not to tire his players out as they manage their workload.
But Jol needs a result to kick-start their season and a result against high-flying City would give them the perfect lift, especially with the visitors appearing to be unstoppable at the moment.
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Key Match-up: Bobby Zamora v Kompany: Zamora was kept on the bench for most of the Europa League draw against FC Twente so he should be fresh. Kompany is the mainstay of the City defence and will be looking to keep the England striker quiet.
Form Guide: Fulham have looked good in possession but their attacks break down too easily. Jol wants more from his forwards as they are normally solid at the back. City are in top form at the moment and the quality in their squad means they can change a host of players without being weakened.
Odds: Fulham 11/2, Manchester City 4/7, Draw 14/5
FULHAM:
Fulham skipper Danny Murphy insists beating City is possible, despite Roberto Mancini's side scoring 15 goals in four league games.
Murphy said: "We can win the game because we've shown before against good quality opposition that we can, especially at the Cottage.
"So bring it on. It's going to need a hell of a performance from us. But what better way to get your first win than against one of the best sides in the Premier League.
"We showed last yeast when we played them up there at their place that we're capable of getting results against the better sides.
"We've done it here before as well against the Man Uniteds of this world, and the Liverpools and Arsenals. You've got to play these teams and try and believe you can win - sometimes teams are finished before they get out on the pitch."
On Fulham's position, Murphy added: "We've got an experienced squad and we won't panic. The fixture list hasn't been kind because we've got Man City on Sunday when them and United are in such sizzling form.
"I don't want to get the violin out but we seem to be getting punished a lot recently. But that's football at this level against good opposition."
Strategy: It will be difficult for Fulham to impose themselves on game so they will look to counter-attack. They are a threat from set-pieces too.
Injury Update: Bryan Ruiz is back in the squad after being ineligible for Europe, Aaron Hughes (knee) is a doubt and Dickson Etuhu has a thigh injury.
MANCHESTER CITY:
City manager Mancini is not letting up in his search for perfection and claims his free-scoring side still need to become more ruthless in front of goal.
He has seen his side make a flying start to the season and they are only being kept off top spot by neighbours Manchester United making an 100 per cent start.
But the hard-to-please Italian is not satisfied and urged his star-studded squad to follow the example of Sir Alex Ferguson's side.
He said: "Manchester United are a top team, they have been used to winning for a long time.
"They have strong players. When they played against Arsenal, when they scored two or three goals, they continued trying to score. We need to have this mentality."
He added: "I don't think it will be possible to win always but we want to try to. We know Fulham will be a very tough game as they are strong at home."
Mancini is set to rotate his side at Craven Cottage as he tries to juggle his squad's involvement in three competitions.
That means Carlos Tevez, who failed to push through a summer exit, is in line to start.
But Mancini says his former captain must accept he has slipped down the pecking order, and said: "At this moment there are players that are better than him.
"He will have a chance to play. I don't know if he is happy, but every player that can't play is not happy."
Strategy: Mancini can things freshen up in the knowledge he is not weakening his side. And with Fulham having been in European action barely 72 hours earlier, this will only play into City's hands.
Injury Update: Nigel de Jong is out and is set to be joined on the sidelines by James Milner. Owen Hargreaves is not ready yet to make his debut.
Man City 3 Wigan 0: Sergio Aguero Hat-Trick Maintains City’s Flying Start
by Neil JohnstonFiled under: Manchester City, Wigan, Premier League, Football, Match Reports
Sergio Aguero hit a stunning hat-trick to maintain Manchester City's flying start to the campaign as Roberto Mancini's side warmed up for their Champions League debut with another impressive victory.
City entertain Napoli on Wednesday on the back of a fourth straight league win this season after an Aguero-inspired success.
The Argentinian opened the scoring in the 13th minute before two goals in the space of six second-half minutes earned him the match ball.
It should have been more as Carlos Tevez missed a penalty on his return to the side while Micah Richards and Vincent Kompany both rattled the woodwork.
THE GOALS
13mins: That's four goals in four league games for Aguero since his £38 million move from Atletico Madrid after firing through the legs of Maynor Figueroa following a delightful move involving Tevez and David Silva. (1-0)
63mins: Substitute Samir Nasri marks his home debut by teeing up Aguero to tuck home his second. (2-0)
68mins: And there's Aguero's hat-trick. A neat finish after Silva's delicious pass. (3-0)
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
4mins: Adam Johnson is presented with a glorious opportunity to mark his return to the side with a goal, but the unmarked winger is wasteful as he fires high over the bar following Gael Clichy's cross.
9mins: Good save by keeper Ali Al Habsi, who is alert to Silva's 20-yard effort after being teed-up by the busy Johnson.
11mins: Joleon Lescott heads Kompany's goalbound header over the Wigan bar from almost point-blank range.
17mins: Penalty to City after Silva is fouled by Adrian Lopez. But Tevez fails to take advantage as his weak attempt is kept out by Al Habsi.
27mins: A defence-splitting ball by Tevez leaves Richards with only the keeper to beat yet the defender can only hit the woodwork.
35mins: The Wigan bar is rattled again. This time Kompany heads against the post and then Lescott cannot divert Richards' driven cross over the line.
59mins: A let off for City as Joe Hart keeps out Hugo Rodallega's shot after a fine run by Victor Moses.
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REACTION
Mancini insisted there is still room for improvement from his side despite a fourth win in four games:
"We had about 15 chances in the first half and only scored one goal. This is a problem because the game can change at any moment. All the players played every well. But if we want to stay at the top for a long time then we need to improve."
On Aguero's hat-trick:
"He played very well but so too did all my players. I enjoyed watching it because I like it when we play football very well."
On fatigue in his squad:
"The players are so tired. Some of them have played two games for the national team and need to recover over the next three days. Carlos (Tevez) is not 100 per cent fit at this moment, but I am happy for him because for me he played very well. He linked well with Sergio. It was important for him to start and play well. Maybe in two or three days time he will be 100 per cent."
On the prospect of taking on Europe's elite in the Champions League:
"We need to be calm. It is important to improve every game. We have players who play very well but to arrive at the top we need time. We need to improve as a team."
On Napoli:
"It will be a hard game. It will be the first time that we have played in the Champions League. It will be an exciting night. Napoli are a good team and the first group game is always difficult."
Wigan manager Roberto Martinez admitted his side had been well beaten:
"I can't complain about the result but we kept going. We were not expected to come here and win but we can learn lessons from this."
On the importance of bouncing back quickly:
"I'm glad that we have a game so soon. It will give us a chance to respond."
WHAT IT MEANS
Played four, scored 15. The City juggernaut rolls on after a result that ensured City made headlines for the right reasons after the controversy over Garry Cook's resignation as chief executive. This was just the result - and performance - that Mancini had demanded ahead of his team's Champions League debut. Aguero will get the headlines but Silva and Tevez, despite his spot kick failure, were also impressive. No one will fancy facing City in this form. Wigan will be pleased to return to action so quickly on Tuesday in the Carling Cup. The Crystal Palace tie will at least give Martinez's side a chance to return to winning ways after such a comprehensive defeat.
MANCHESTER CITY 3 (Aguero 13, 63, 69) WIGAN 0
PLAYER MARKING:
Manchester City (4-2-3-1): Hart 7; Richards 7, Kompany 7, Lescott 7, Clichy 7; Y Toure 7 (Razak 80), Milner 7; Johnson 7, Silva 7, Aguero 9 (Balotelli 71, 6); Tevez 7 (Nasri 61, 7).
Subs (not used): Pantilimon, Zabaleta, K Toure, Dzeko.
Wigan (4-1-4-1): Al Habsi 7; Boyce 6 (Stam 60, 5), Caldwell 6, Lopez 5, Figueroa 6; Watson 6 (Crusat 70, 5); Rodallega 6, Diame 6, McArthur 6, Moses 6; Di Santo 6 (Gomez 70, 5).
Subs (not used): Kirkland, McCarthy, Sammon, Jones.
ATTENDANCE: 46,509
REFEREE: Martin Atkinson
NEXT UP:
- Manchester City v Napoli (home), Champions League Group A, 14/09, 1945 BST
- Wigan v Crystal Palace (away), Carling Cup Second Round, 13/09, 2000 BST
Kolo Toure Faces Battle to Reclaim Spot at Man City after Serving Drugs Ban
by Darren WitcoopFiled under: Manchester City, Premier League, Football
Another new defender will arrive at Manchester City this week.
No, Roberto Mancini has not decided to plunder tha apparently limitless millions at his disposal and splash out on hyet another new recruit.
But it's the return of Kolo Toure. Remember him?
Toure is back in training and available for selection for Saturday's home game against Wigan after serving a six month ban for failing a drugs test.
The 30-year-old Ivory Coast international was suspended from all football activity after admitting he had taken dieting pills, obtained through his wife.
News of his suspension sent shockwaves around football earlier this year - and it left Manchester City supporters fearing the most.
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There was no need.
Because while Toure's comeback will only strengthen his club's hand, a lot has changed since the former Arsenal defender last figured at the Etihad Stadium.
A regular on the team-sheet before his ban for taking the prohibited substance began, he faces a major challenge to regain his place in a new-look Manchester City side.
Toure, despite losing the captaincy to Carlos Tevez, had been the rock of Mancini's defence as they struggled to find the formula in front of goal.
Now they appear to have found the answer to their scoring problems with 12 goals in their opening three league games and are now looking watertight at the back for good measure.
Vincent Kompany, who has since worn the armband, has taken his game to levels in Toure's prolonged absence while Lescott has started to look the player that saw Manchester City pay £22 million for his services in August 2009.
In fact, the pair have formed such a good understanding they have been a fixture in Mancini's ever-changing side.
No sign of squad rotation in this position, the Kompany-Lescott axis has even seen the Italian drop his long-standing interest in Bolton's Gary Cahill.
Of course, few can doubt the role Toure played in helping achieve the club record of 26 clean sheets as goalkeeper Joe Hart claimed the Premier League's golden glove award last season.
But Toure missed out at the business end of last season, playing a limited role in his side's FA Cup triumph as well as their Champions League qualification.
He says he is desperate to make up for lost time - as well as prove those doubters wrong who questioned his honesty after for taking bendro-flumethiazide in some water tablets.
He told the Daily Mail: "I want to show all the people that think Kolo Toure needed tablets, water tablets, to be a better footballer.
"I just want to show them and that's what I will do.
"I will give 100 per cent in every single game to show those people I don't need water tablets to be a strong man.
"I've been in this league for almost 10 years now, being unbeatable with Arsenal, doing a lot of good games. I just want to show them."
Toure will be eased back in gently after the resumption of the international break, especially given the last match he featured in was back in March.
Since then, the forgotten man has been forced to watch on from the sidelines as the mega-rich club have gone from strength.
It looks increasingly likely he will have do the same thing now - and he can have no cause for complain at that.
Team of the Week: Manchester…so Much to Answer for
by Jason MellorFiled under: Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Newcastle, Sunderland, Premier League, Football, Team Of The Week
So, let's have a look, shall we? Contenders for the latest FanHouse Team of the Week.
Hmm, well there's probably room for a couple of Arsenal players in there, right? After all, it's not every week you go to Old Trafford and score twice is it? Hang on a minute. What's that? They conceded HOW many.
Okay, scrub that. It's pretty safe to say the Gunners are gonners on this occasion.
That's especially seeing as their combined merit marks as a team barely scraped past that earned by Wayne Rooney for his stunning hat-trick, which in the process took the England forward, impressive new hairline and all, past 150 goals for Manchester United.
Given City's ruthless demolition of Tottenham at White Hart Lane, we can confidently predict that, as Morrissey almost once said, Manchester has so much to answer for when it comes to providing more than half of this week's outstanding individuals.
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Honourable mentions must go to Leon Best and Franco Di Santo, who each scored twice in victories for Newcastle and Wigan respectively, but joining Rooney up front is Edin Dzeko, the Bosnian finally making up for a slow start at City with a sumptuous display of forward play to help himself to four of City's five against hapless Spurs.
The 6ft 3in forward's first goal was set up by Samir Nasri, who enjoyed a fruitful debut following his £24m move from Arsenal - Arsene Wenger at least given some vicarious satisfaction from seeing one of his 'finds' recognised by us this time, even though we've had to shift him over to central midfield in our line-up, when all his good work came down the left at the weekend. We're sure he won't mind.
Life on the Fringes at Manchester City Could Bring Best Out of Carlos Tevez
by Graham ChaseFiled under: Manchester City, Premier League, Football
After a couple of months of reality checks, and purely by chance, Carlos Tevez finds himself in a situation that may finally see Manchester City get the best out of him once again.
Tevez sat on the bench as City's bewildering new attacking line ripped through Tottenham to serve notice to the Premier League with a crushing 5-1 victory at White Hart Lane that took them on to nine points from their three matches, with 12 goals already scored.
Edin Dzeko, who looked incapable of trapping a ball or running 100 metres in under 30 seconds last season, continued his fine start to the campaign with four goals.
Sergio Aguero has settled immediately and also contributed a goal, while David Silva did what David Silva does and Samir Nasri was not too bad either.
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Not for the first time since Tevez arrived in England, we were left to ponder on what Tevez was thinking.
In the space of a few weeks, Tevez has discovered that City are tired of his behaviour and were prepared to sanction a move to Corinthians. When that fell through, none of Europe's big-hitters were prepared to take him on for the money.
Oh, and after being told he made City a one-man team for the past two years, they seem to be doing more than okay without him thank you very much, with Vincent Kompany growing in stature as captain.
Last week Roberto Mancini, who has endured a fractious relationship with the Argentinian, 27, in his season and a half in England, revealed that Tevez's family have returned to Manchester.
Going by what we know of Tevez's character, he is likely to see all of this as a challenge and Aguero is keen to play alongside him at the Etihad Stadium.
Tottenham 1 Man City 5: Edin Dzeko Hits Four as Mancini’s Side Run Riot
by Ian WinrowFiled under: Manchester City, Tottenham, Premier League, Football, Match Reports
Edin Dzeko struck four as Roberto Mancini's Manchester City confirmed they have been reinvented as an attacking force this season and are genuine title contenders with a third win three games that have produced 12 goals.
With Samir Nasri making his debut, Mancini fielded an exciting array of forward talents and was rewarded with a devastating victory that also included a goal from Sergio Aguero.
Tottenham folded after a positive start and had only Younes Kaboul's 67th minute goal to show for their efforts as they took their tally to goals conceded to eight in their opening two league games.
GOALS:
35 mins: Samir Nasri and Gael Clichy combine down the City left before Nasri clips over a low cross and that Edin Dzeko meets on the volley ahead of Younes Kaboul.
41 mins: Nasri is again allowed too much time and space on the left to cross, again finding Dzeko who is too powerful for Kaboul in the air.
54 mins: Yaya Toure works his way to the byline and crosses for Dzeko who taps in for his hat-trick.
60 mins: Another Nasri assist, this time to Sergio Aguero who rounds Michael Dawson with ease before beating Brad Friedel with a left foot shot.
67 mins: Younes Kaboul rises to meet Rafael van der Vaart's corner but it is too little, too late for the home side.
90+2 mins: Dezko plays a one-two with Gareth Barry before curling a left foor shot beyond Fiedel from the edge of the box.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS:
3 mins: Niko Kranjcar spins away from Vincent Kompany and sends a curling right foot shot wide when he should have played in Peter Crouch.
5 mins: Nasri spurns a great chance to make his mark on the game when he scuffs a shot wide moments after teeing up David Silva's blocked effort.
20 mins: Rafael van der Vaart almost catches Joe Hart out with curling free kick from a tight angle.
26 mins: Crouch fails to connect properly with Aaron Lennon's right wing cross and Gareth Bale shoots over from close range.
40 mins: Crouch comes within inches of equalising with a header from Bale's driven left win cross.
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REACTION:
Mancini believes Dzeko is ready to make an impact on the Premier League after a difficult start to his City career last season:
"I was sure that Dzeko could score a lot of goals here in the Premier League. He has scored always in his career, at every club where he has played."
On the season ahead:
"It was important we started the season well - we won't see the players for 10 days now. The games coming up will be very hard and we won't score three or four in every game, this is impossible."
On the goal conceded:
"I'm disappointed only with the goal we conceded, only for this. We need to pay more attention in this situation. The season is very, very long."
Dzeko claims his four goals confirms he is now attuned to the demands of the Premier League:
"Last time I scored four goals was in Germany in a game against a Third Division side in the Cup. To score four goals in the Premier League is fantastic. I always had a lot of confidence in myself. I wasn't 100 per cent fit when I first came in January, but I feel better and stronger now."
Harry Redknapp believes the uncertainty surrounding the futures of Luka Modric and Peter Crouch affected his team and revealed Modric needed to be persuaded to play following morning reports of renewed interest from Chelsea.
"I feel we've had a terrible pre-season. There's been a feeling round the place. For me, it's not been right. People going, people wanting to go.
"Luka came to see me and said his head wasn't right but I needed him to play."
On the performance:
"The game started and, for 35 minutes, there was nothing in the game. We had as many chances as they had. But we didn't defend well enough."
WHAT IT MEANS:
Mancini's effort to build on the solid foundation of his defensive unit appears to have paid off and while there will be difficult times ahead, they currently have the look of a team capable of challenging throughout the campaign. Tottenham paid a heavy price for their failure to take early chances but they lack the steel that City possess and confirmed by Redknapp is keen to add Scott Parker to his squad.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 1 (Kaboul 67) MANCHESTER CITY 5 (Dzeko 35, 41, 54, 90+2, Aguero 60)
PLAYER MARKING:
Tottenham Hotspur (4-4-1-1): Friedel 6; Corluka 5, Dawson 5, Kaboul 5, Assou-Ekotto 6; Lennon 6 (Defoe 6,52), Kranjcar 6 (Huddlestone 6,46), Modric 6 (Livermore 6,65), Bale 7; Van der Vaart 7; Crouch 7.
Subs (not used): Cudicini, Pavlyuchenko, Bassong, Walker.
Manchester City (4-3-3): Hart 7; Zabaleta 7 (Richard 6,64), Kompany 6, Lescott 6, Clichy 8; Y Toure 7, Barry 7, Nasri 9; Silva 7, Aguero 7 (Savic 6,75), Dzeko 9.
Subs (not used): Pantilimon, Milner, Johnson, Tevez, Balotelli.
ATTENDANCE: 36,150
REFEREE: Phil Dowd
NEXT UP:
- Tottenham Hotspur v Wolverhampton Wanderers (away), Premier League 10/09, 1500 BST
- Manchester City v Wigan Athetic (home), Premier League 10/09, 1500
MAN OF THE MATCH:
Edin Dzeko (Manchester City): The striker looked out of his depth last season but having settled in following his move from Wolfsburg, now looks capable of posing a threat in the Premier League. None of his first three goals were classic, but all were reward for determination and a desire to reach the ball before his marker. His fourth was a moment of true class.
Tottenham v Manchester City Preview: Nasri Makes Quick North London Return as Spurs Move For Parker
by Jon WestFiled under: Manchester City, Tottenham, Champions League, Europa League (UEFA), Premier League, Football, Match Previews
PREMIER LEAGUE: WHITE HART LANE, SUNDAY AUGUST 28, 2011. KICK-OFF: 1330 BST.
What a venue for Samir Nasri to begin his City career following three years as an Arsenal player as Tottenham fans wonder whether Luka Modric will actually get on the pitch this season, and whether Scott Parker will son be providing the ammunition in midfield for new signing Emmanuel Adebayor.
Adebayor must sit out this one of course as he is on loan from City and it remains unclear what part Modric will play as the Croat is still seething over Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy's refusal to sell him to Chelsea.
Tottenham are understood to have lodged a £5 million bid for Parker, West Ham's England international, with manager Harry Redknapp confirming he is keen to sign the 30-year-old, and his Upton Park counterpart Sam Allardyce also indicating the player will go if the price is right.
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Key match-up: Michael Dawson v Edin Dzeko. Dzeko struggled to justify his £27 million price tag last term but the Bosnian Diamond looks much more settled now and has found the net in each of City's games so far. Dawson's aim this season is to establish himself in the England squad in time for the Euro 2012 finals and to do that he will have to get the better of the Premier League's top strikers.
Form guide: Spurs have lost their only Premier League fixture so far, 3-0 at Manchester United, but had more success in the Europa League qualifiers, beating Hearts 5-0 over two legs. City were pipped by United in the Community Shield showpiece but will take a 100% record with them on their return to London, having beaten Swansea 4-0 at home and Bolton 3-2 at the Reebok.
Odds: Tottenham 15/8, Manchester City 6/4, draw 23/10
TOTTENHAM:
Redknapp tossed a pre-match hand grenade in Nasri's direction by pourng scorn on the Frenchman's claim that money was not the reason why he chose City over Manchester United.
"I don't believe that, no," he said. "He could have gone to Man United. They wanted him and he wanted to go to Man United, that's what I heard. But then Man City came in and offered him more money.
"That's how it goes. It's just a shirt and off we go. When people get the hump and say 'he played for Arsenal, Adebayor' I say 'what difference does it make really?' You play where you play. It's a short career and you play wherever it takes you. Just do your best."
Strategy: Levy's thinking over the Modric affiar is clear: if Spurs sell their best players then they will be perceived to be no longer one of England's elite.
But, as Redknapp himself has indicated, the fact that City have allowed Adebayor to join them means the Eastlands billionaires have already come to that conclusion.
It will be down to the likes of Rafael van der Vaart and Gareth Bale therefore to remind their opponents of their qualities.
Injury update: Defender Kyle Walker and midfielder Jermaine Jenas are both over a virus but Peter Crouch, Steven Pienaar, Ledley King, William Gallas, Sandro, Wilson Palacios and Danny Rose all remain sidelined.
Controversial Craig Bellamy Could Be Set for Surprise Return to Liverpool
by John PercyFiled under: Liverpool, Manchester City, Cardiff, Premier League, Football, Transfer News
For a player who has had so many clubs, it is rather apt that the 'Nutter with the Putter' should be returning to the place where he is remembered more for an alleged assault with a golf iron.
Craig Bellamy appears set to return to Liverpool before Wednesday's transfer deadline and Kenny Dalglish is certainly giving the Wales international the rub of the green.
He is persona non grata at Manchester City under Roberto Mancini and last season was operating in the humble environs of Bramall Lane, Deepdale and the Keepmoat Stadium after a loan spell with his beloved Cardiff.
But Dalglish is prepared to offer Bellamy another chance at redemption in the Premier League at the age of 32 and finally end his fractious relationship with Mancini.
He still has a year left on his £95,000 a week contract but City are prepared to agree a settlement and get him off their gargantuan wage bill.
Bellamy will effectively be a free agent and for Liverpool the deal is a no-brainer as they look to gatecrash the Premier League's top four this season.
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It has been a nomadic existence for Bellamy ever since his fall-out with Rafa Benitez four years ago but there is a sense of unfinished business for the striker at Anfield.
He only spent 13 months at Liverpool before his infamous contretemps with John Arne Riise sounded the death knell. But if anyone can get the best out of him at this stage in his career, it is Dalglish.
Bellamy can probably expect limited game time due to the preferred forward partnership of Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez but still represents a great option to have on the bench.
He will also need to be managed properly due to his recent knee problems but if Dalglish can get him firing he will surely represent another decent signing in an impressive spending spree this summer.
Liverpool will take him before the deadline if the deal doesn't run into turbulence - or late competition from Harry Redknapp - and Bellamy will undoubtedly have a point to prove.