Short break

Due to one or two things I've got on at the moment, this will be the last day I post up for around a week or so, so it is perhaps with good timing that Mr Banks has returned today from his long hiatus to assist on the site in my absence - and it is also likely that I'm not going to get to post as a regularly as usual over the next month or so.

It maybe that I do look to open up and expand Bitter and Blue a little so if there are any of you out there who are looking to make contributions, then please feel free to drop me an email at bitterandblue@hotmail.co.uk.

The window is closing...

Slightly earlier than the midnight deadline I know but unless anything out of the ordinary happens over the next half an hour it looks to a decidedly anti-climatic deadline day for both City and the Premiership as a whole with not too many noteworthy signings.

In fact, trying to cobble together a post to look at an 'All transfer window XI' side was proving largely uninspiring as it resembled West Ham's attempt to shore up a defence, a couple of rookie midfielders and strikers less prolific than our very own.

So, rumours of Mido, John, Konchesky, Etherington et al appear to have amounted to nothing with only Michael Ball as a beat the deadline signing. Looking at the players that have moved, there isn't a great deal that would have significantly upgraded our side - and those that may have done seem to be priced out of reach by transfer fee and/or likely wages.

Disappointing that we didn't ultimatey land a striker, and somewhat frustrating that rumours of Andrew Cole looking for a move out of Portsmouth already due to a lack of games. How a fully fit Cole would improve the side that we are turning out at the moment eh?

Time to renew?

There is an interesting thread currently over at the Supporters Trust over the issue of season ticket renewals, and in particular what options are available to the club. Ollie comes up with a number of suggestions he would like to see the club make.

One thing I would like to see the club offer though is the option of a part-season ticket, perhaps split into three sections of the season where you purchase a six/seven game ticket instead of a full season.

With increased game movement due to TV scheduling and other commitments people have it is becoming far harder for supporters to commit to a full season, whilst offering nothing in between other than inidividual game tickets can only serve to encourage fans to not bother going to a game if they have to constantly buy tickets (and check release dates, how many points they have etc) each and every time they want to go to a match.

I know this is something the club have offered towards the end of the season previously, but with falling attendances and season ticket renewals surely it would be a way to try and entice back some of the fans who are deciding to stay away on a more regular basis?

Balls In, More Coming ?

Michael Ball has signed on the dotted line in a permanent deal for an 'undiscloed fee' the rumour mill is currently been oiled by the names of James Beattie , Matthew Etherington and Collins John.

Transfer Deadline Day

So will it be , Mido , Collins John, Michael Ball, Paul Konchesky..................

John Wardle has had to dip into his pocket again to fund a transfer (if it happens) personally I think we will just see Michael Ball , as a direct replacement for Ben Thatcher, which Pearce will describe as 'cute' as I am presuming no fee will be involved for the player.

Anybody got any potentially libelous rumors ?

Supporters Trust open meeting announced

The MCFC Supporters Trust today announced that they would be holding an open meeting on Sunday March 4th 2pm at the University of Manchester’s Renold Building, Sackville Street Campus, Altrincham Street, Manchester, M1 3BB.

Working party spokesman, Ollie Goddard, commented:

"City fans have a reputation for being both passionate
and fiercely loyal, yet the fans are becoming increasingly marginalised. Our aim
is to readdress the balance by putting supporters back at the heart of our club.
We hope to provide fans with a collective voice, a means of communicating with
club management and a way for individuals to affect the future success of
Manchester City.

We will also outline our aims and proposals and have
invited a number of special guest speakers to voice their opinion on a variety
of football and City related issues".

All City supporters are welcome and the meeting will be used to present the principles and philosophy behind the Supporters Trust movement and the national body representing it, Supporters Direct.

I've met up with a couple of the guys involved and had some dialogue in recent months with them about their aims and what they are hoping to achieve by setting up the trust, and I'd recommend that anyone interested get themselves down there on the day or contact them at mcfcsupporters@hotmail.co.uk

I'll be down there myself so if anyone is intending to get down themselves let me know.

Pearce goes on the offensive

Perhaps stung a little by the criticism and negativity heading his way this week over the England under-21 role, Stuart Pearce has fought back today declaring that he is more than capable of combining the two roles, and urging City fans to 'get real' over fears he would not treat City as his priority.

The biggest charm offensive was in todays MEN, where a two page interview with Chris Bailey saw Pearce trying to reassure fans (and the board?) that there would be no conflict of interest - pointing to the fact he would only be away for a handful of days between now and the end of the season, with it not being uncommon for him to miss certain training sessions, he would have attended the under-21 tournament anyway as an interested spectator/scout, and that the role would end at the climax of the tournament.

Peter Taylor also backed Pearce to be able to handle the pressures of the dual role and Pearce does have an argument with his comments today, and although I am still against him taking the role perhaps a lot of the talk was overblown in the aftermath of his bungled announcement on Sunday.

Andrew over at purelymancity offers an ever insightful perspective on the subject, claiming that there may be more behind the boards decision to reject the approach from the FA - and particularly the influence of Dennis Tueart at the club.

The impending transfer window deadline has perhaps pushed the timescale on a decision back a little - particularly given that it appears likely that a couple of reinforcements will be brought in before tomorrows midnight deadline.

However, expect this issue to dominate the column inches towards the end of the week and beyond until a decision is made - a decision that I fear could leave some long lasting feeling depending upon how it is resolved.

FA Cup 5th round draw

We are faced with another Championship side in this seasons FA Cup with an away tie at Preston, and it is certainly a far trickier encounter than either Sheffield Wednesday or Southampton.

Riding high in the league, they look to be a good bet for automatic promotion and in former City player Paul Simpson have a manager who is considered amongst the new breed of young managers to have an impact on the game.

Full draw:

Chelsea v Blackpool or Norwich
Watford v Ipswich
Preston v Man City
Plymouth v Derby County
Man Utd v Reading
Arsenal or Bolton v Blackburn
Bristol City or Middlesbrough v West Bromwich Albion
Fulham v Tottenham

City 3 Southampton 1

Just a quick post as pushed for time a little this evening.

Despite the scare of going a goal down, we quickly rebounded through Vassell's equaliser and from then on it appeared as only being a matter of time before we would ultimately go on to the win the game.

Perhaps it was fortunate that we got back in the game so quickly as if we had gone 10-15 minutes into the second then the pressure may have begun to build a little. A great ball from Ireland through to Barton got the second and good to see Beasley get on the scoresheet as well to add a little insurance to the scoreline.

A comfortable afternoon all in all and despite their league positions being relatively similar, I expect a far tougher contest at Preston in round five.

Reports:

MEN
Independent
Telegraph

Reaction:

"We were well worth our victory. The players really showed
that they wanted to go through.
"That is just one defeat in eight games now
which is pleasing for me and is credit to the players.
"We'd be delighted if
we got a home tie next and we might have a couple of new faces in our side by
then too."

- Stuart Pearce

"We gave it our best shot and worked our socks off but
overall City deserved to win the tie.
"Their goals came at a bad time for
us. We had started badly and got our noses in front but conceded quite soon
afterwards and right on half-time.
"We had chances but I could not ask from
any more from my players." - George Burley

The loan rangers

One thing that Stuart Pearce has preached since taking over the job is the value of young players going out on loan in order to gain experience which will stand them in good stead once they return to the club.

This transfer window has seen a number of youngsters at the club go out on loan and currently there is Kaspar Schmeichel, Joe Hart, Matt Mills, Kelvin Etuhu, Marc Laird and Nathan D'Laryea all farmed out to lower league sides to continue their footballing education.

Clearly some players are talented enough to bypass the need to go out on loan and make the jump straight to the first team, but another benefit of younger players going out on loan is the barometer of whether or not they will ultimately make the grade at City and often their time out on loan will confirm that perhaps they will not make the grade.

I think the only drawback for us at the moment is that the squad is so light, we do not really have the option of loaning players out for the season due to the possibility of them being needed at the club so a lot of the loans we are involved in at the moment are for the period of a month.

In the modern game though it seems that there is less emphasis on reserve team football, and as a result it does not provide the required intensity for a young player to bridge the gap between youth team football and the big stage and with the talented crop of youngsters that are coming through, the option of loaning players out over a sustained period of time is becoming even more important.

Pearce set for England collision course

Contrary to reports yesterday that a deal allowing Stuart Pearce to take over the running of the England under-21 side had been agreed, the club released the following statement:

"Manchester City Football Club would like to clarify
the situation regarding the offer of the temporary England Under 21 coaching
role to our Manager, Stuart Pearce.
The Club has not given permission for
our Manager to be released for England duty. We recognise Stuart's patriotism
and enthusiasm to assist the Football Association and Manchester City in turn
understands the F.A's desire to have him contributing to the Under 21s European
Championship campaign.
We will remain in dialogue with the F.A. and hope to
reach a solution suitable to this Club in the next few days".

Quite what this 'suitable solution' is is anybody's guess at the moment - it may be financial compensation, or more simply the club reluctantly agreeing to the move but trying to ensure Pearce is away on international duty for as little time as possible.

It was a strange chain of events yesterday with Pearce appearing to confirm he had agreed to take the position - only for the board to release the above statement denying this. Pearce himself clearly wants the job, and probably sees it as a stepping stone into the England fold for the ultimate job (which he was touted before previously), and Pearce himself said:

"I have accepted the FA's offer to manage the
Under-21s.
"The club had concerns about me doing the job and maybe it taking
my eye off the ball, but I know that won't be the case.
"I will be introduced
to the squad on Sunday night ahead of the friendly against Spain.
If I
thought it would be detrimental to City, I wouldn't be taking on the
role.
"It's a great honour to be asked to do something for your country when
you're as patriotic as I am. And the club have been very open-minded about the
offer. The FA have just got to finalise one of two things.
"We're trying to
get a compromise between both parties to make sure everyone is happy. Regardless
of whether or not I'm in charge of the Under-21s, we will win games, draw games
and lose games. There's a ready-made excuse there every week, but I work too
hard at my job for anything at all to distract me from doing it well."

The papers this morning are full of contrasting stories - The Mirror claiming Pearce is at 'war' with the club and The Guardian stating the club is 'irritated' at the 'clumsy and premature' announcement. The Mail meanwhile suggested it had 'provoked fury' with the board.

The problem the club has - and it is disappointing Pearce and the FA have been so public, is that they now face the prospect of either reluctantly agreeing a move, or perhaps even more damaging will be to reject the move outright, and potentially damaging long-term relations between club and manager.

It appears that the sticking point is the availability of Pearce for the two friendly matches between now and the end of the season in anticipation of this summers European Championships, with the club willing to allow Pearce to be in charge for the tournament but not before, or maybe even after.

I believe it inevitable that an agreement will be reached, with all sides having to give and take a little - ultimately not being in the best interests of either the club, Pearce or the FA.

Southampton preview

Where and when:

City of Manchester Stadium, Sunday January 28th 2007.

Current form:

Both sides have a decent Cup pedigree in recent season, with Southampton making the last sixteen in all but one of the past five seasons and ourselves aiming for a fifth appearance in the round five over the past seven seasons.
This season, George Burley has guided the Saints to the playoff spots in the Championship and are unbeaten in their past eight games and have not conceded in three.

Until the Blackburn defeat, we had picked up in both performances and results and ultimately brushed aside another Championship side Sheffield Wednesday in round three.

Team news:

City welcome back Joey Barton after suspension but Trevor Sinclair must serve one.
Loan signing Djamel Abdoun, 20, could make his debut for City.

Southampton could welcome back Nathan Dyer after an ankle injury but Inigo Idiakez, Rudi Skacel, Andrew Surman and Djamel Belmadi are out.
Full-back Chris Makin is set to return after hamstring trouble, while in-demand Gareth Bale plays and Bradley Wright-Phillips is pushing to start. (Courtesy of BBC Sport)

Keys to the game:

It is upto us to dictate the pace of the game early on in the game, as the crowd is (again) not likely to be a large one and the danger is a flat atmosphere would be more beneficial to Southampton, who are likely to come out flying in the early stages.

Barton's return will help and if our midfield get a grip of the game and control proceedings then we should have enough to win through. Up front though, whichever pairing Pearce goes with need to eliminate some of the wastefulness we have seen in recent games, as chances will probably be at a premium so we need to be far more ruthless than we have been in recent games.

City link:

Bradley Wright-Phillips. Discarded by Stuart Pearce, he must glance over at our striking woes and think 'what if'? This is his chance to prove Pearce was wrong to let him go.

Why City will win:

Despite Southampton's good form this season, this is a big game for us with last years disappointing FA Cup exit serving as a spur to go even further this season. Barton's return should take us through.

Why City will lose:

The Blackburn result signalled the end of our mini-revival, and could be the catalyst for another second half of the season meltdown.

Prediction:

City 2 Southampton 1

Opposition view.

Pearce targeted for under-21 role?

In the wake of the decision by Peter Taylor to step down from his position of manager of the England under-21 side, it seems that Stuart Pearce one of, if not the leading candidate to fill the role.

Taylor - who has held the position on a couple of occasions, has cited the pressures of the dual role for his decision, not necessarily personally but more from an outside perception. It is probably not without coincidence that this may have been more prevalent given the struggles at Crystal Palace this season, whereas at Hull he enjoyed continued success gaining successive promotions.

Pearce is a very patriotic person, saying 'any time your country approaches you about anything is a proud moment', and he believes that the role could be combined and indeed would be a benefit to City. Let's also not forget that he was once considered as a favourite to replace Sven Goran Eriksso, and was also tipped as a candidate to be part of Steve McLaren's coaching set-up.

At this stage it seems that contact has been nothing more than 'a brief conversation', but a couple of stories have appeared suggesting the board are less inclined to agree with him and are not overly keen on Pearce being involved in any potential set-up.

Personally, I am inclined to believe that it wouldn't be beneficial for City if Pearce took the role on. Yes, it would expose him to a different type of coaching and different players but this would take him away from the club whenever there was an international break.

Maybe at a club bristling with international players this wouldn't be a problem, as international week on the training ground resembles a ghost town but at City the vast majority of palyers would still be around and this would surely have a de-stabilising an detrimental effect on training sessions that Pearce (unlike some managers) plays an active role in.

I don't also buy the theory that working with the under-21's would make it easier to attract players to the club given the vastly over-inflated fees young English players move for.

At this stage it may be far from the deal being signed, sealed and delivered but given Pearce's nature he will want to take the role on if offered and do the board risk a confrontation over it, given that Pearce will be far from pleased should he be blocked over this.

Endless City stats

I came across this page on Eurosports site, via the purelymancity site. I've not seen a site which gives as much in depth statistical data on City anywhere else, so if stats float your boat go take a look.

As it looks to be constantly updated, I've also added a link under the 'City links' section as well.

Ball move adds confusion to Coco trial

Following the sale of Ben Thatcher and the decision to curtail the trial of Francesco Coco, we have taken former Everton and Rangers defender Michael Ball on trial.

Ball, who has been sidelined by Ronald Koeman despite featuring heavily under previous coach Guus Hiddink is an interesting option and would potentially upgrade the left-back position - whilst also providing cover in a more central position.

However, something still irks about the Coco trial as for me Coco would have been a better fit for the formation than Ball - who is more of a 'defender' than Coco who offers more of an attacking threat.

The move for Ball - whilst it will be a positive addition to the squad, only serves to add a little to the saga surrounding Coco's ill-fated spell at the club.

Responding to claims that his approach to his trial at the club was not entirely professional, Francesco Coco has hit out, saying:

"I am a serious professional, educated and
respectful with others."
"I left Manchester on good terms with the coach
(Stuart Pearce)."
"When they told me that City could use my services, I
asked Inter's permission to travel to England for a couple of days.
"It
didn't work out because the coach wanted to use me in a different position to
what I am used to, full-back.
"After two days we realised that there was no
point in wasting time as they already have two players in my position."

To cut short a trial only lasting a week is near farcical, and either Coco has let himself down badly if the rumours circulating are to be believed, or the club has done zero homework on a player before inviting them in for a trial period.

Either way, someone doesn't come out of all this looking too good.

Transfer rumour round-up - January 23rd

I've not posted one of these for a little while and as we head into the last week of what has on the whole (not just City) been a fairly quiet transfer window, with maybe the impending deadline forcing clubs into a late scramble.

It has been confirmed that Claudio Reyna has ended his career at City to move back to the MLS - the only surprise being it took this long into the window to conclude, and brings to an end yet another disappointing City career from a player who promised much but delivered too little in a City shirt.

One player seemingly not on the move is Danny Mills, whose recent injury looks to have ended any hopes that Hull may take him either on loan or permanently.

Spanish striker Kepa - rumoured to be a City target, has landed at Upton Park where Alan Curbishley continues to spend the sort of cash he could only dream of at Charlton.

Rumoured new targets include both Jermaine Easter of Wycombe - who was rumoured to be watched during tonights Carling Cup game at Chelsea, and Gijs Lurink of AZ Alkmaar.

City 0 Blackburn 3

I did the match review (click here) for The Observer this week, so I'll just expand add a few comments onto that as it's a little pushed for space on there.

It was disappointing that after the progress made over the past month, we turn in a performance surely as poor as anything seen this season. From the start both sides had little attacking intent and the pace of the game did little to rouse a crowd that was as flat as I've come across for a 5.15 kick off.

Clearly we missed Barton's energy and impetus in midfield and neither Dabo or Sinclair picked up the slack. It had 0-0 written all over the game but we conceded a soft goal just before half-time and never looked like threatening to get anything from the game.

All three goals for me could have been avoided - the first Trabelsi was slow in attacking the ball which allowed Pedersen to head past Weaver. The second was also a mistake as Richards was given a poor ball which resulted in him giving away the free kick which was hit home well against Pedersen (who I had tipped to be a goalscoring threat), and as for the third - it somehow managed to look worse on TV as Jordan managed to turn being in a good position goalside to gifting the ball away for a third goal to ice the game.

We looked far too defensive in the first half and only the introduction of Beasley at half-time sparked any life into us. Both Trabelsi and Jordan offered nothing going forward an although Ireland had some nice touches, he couldn't really get anything going.

Up front, Corradi was again yanked at half-time and Vassell failed to convert a couple of half chances. Perhaps it was a game too far given the amount of games that have been played over the past month, but it is to be hoped that we don't slide back into the poor form shown before Christmas - given that we are heading into a game on Sunday that could shape the remainder of our season.

Blackburn preview

Where and when:

City of Manchester Stadium, Saturday January 20th 2007.

Current form:

Both sides are in a good vein of form currently, with City on the back of a six game unbeaten run whilst Blackburn were unbeaten in four prior to defeat against Arsenal last weekend - and come in on the back of two impressive away victories where they have outscored opponents 7-1.

Games involving City have the second least number of goals, but impressively a points return of 1.58 per goal is the highest in the Premiership.

Although the last four games have been drawn at home, Blackburn haven't won at City since 1994.

Team news:

Joey Barton is suspended - and judging by his current form will be a huge loss. This should see Micah Richards pushed forward subject to the fitness of Nedum Onouha. Should Onouha not be fit it may see Sinclair, or even a recall for Didi Hamman - who played in the reserves this week.

David Dunn - having re-signed from Birmingham this week, could be set for a second debut, whilst David Bentley returns from suspension. Lucas Neill will be in the squad after Mark Hughes blocked a move to West Ham until a suitable replacement is found - having earlier agreed the deal with Liverpool that would have seen Steven Warnock move to Ewood Park.

Keys to the game:

It could be a niggly affair, as City have the most red cards this season, whilst Blackburn 'boast' the most yellow cards - although Phil Dowd is not a referee renowned for brandishing cards. City's midfield has gelled well over the past few games, and need to continue to create opportunities. Barton will be a big loss, and it may see Richards once again pushed into a midfield role.

Tugay will be an important factor in the Blackburn midfield, and despite his advancing years has the capability to pull the strings whilst Robbie Savage will play the spoiler role. For me though, it is important that Morten Gamst Pedersen is kept in check as he is a known goal scorer and much will go through him.

City link:

Paul Dickov - if fit, would have been going up against his former side.

Why City will win:

There is a confident air around the side, and we are taking a more patient approach in games which has helped against sides who come with a more defensive approach. Historical results are also with us so I expect the good run to continue.

Why City will lose:

I have no doubt that Blackburn will come with a point first and foremost in their minds and look to snatch an away goal. They are a resolute side and with pace up front have the capability to snatch a win.

Prediction:

City 1 Blackburn 0

Click here for a more in-depth betting guide to the weekends game.

Pearce hits on right formation

Thinking back to the home defeat by Bolton just under a month ago, the outlook was not looking rosy for Stuart Pearce. The 2-0 defeat to Bolton was the low point of a bad month of results which saw us just two points off the relegation zone with a series of games that on paper looked difficult, and could potentially have leave us involved in a relegation battle in a season where it is imperative that Premiership status is maintained.

As bad as the results had been, it was the manner of the performances which left fans disillusioned and fearing the worst - with the team booed off two games running and suggestions that Pearce was fast running out of time.

Since then however, it has been all change and the last half dozen games has seen an upturn in results to leave the outlook far more positive for 2007. Four wins and two draws have catapulted us onto the fringes of the European spots coupled with a favourable 4th round FA Cup tie in a season where more than half of Premiership sides will be out by round five.

Behind this run of results has been the switch to a new formation with Pearce now adopting a 3-5-2 line-up, or on occasion a 3-5-1-1. This has seen the side become far tighter away from home, and whilst the goals are not exactly flowing we are looking far more creative.

For the majority of his tenure, Pearce has opted for a 4-4-2 or 4-5-1 which has not always worked and resulted in performances that were disjointed and lacking in confidence. Credit to Pearce and his coaching staff for the change, and the main benefit of the switch for me is that we are now playing to the strengths of the players he has at his disposal.

The strongest are we have is at centre-half, so it makes sense to go with three centrally, as Richards is not a natural full-back and neither Thatcher or Jordan were strong enough. This has seen the excellent recent form of Nedum Onouha, who did look awkward on his return at right-back.

Midfield has also seen an impressive change with the current trio - Dabo, Barton and Ireland looking better each game. Dabo - now fully fit, has fitted well into the 'Makelele' role, whilst Barton is improving with each game and seemingly starting every move. Stephen Ireland though is the key in this trio for me. A knock on him has been his inability to consistently play ninety minutes and I don't think being part of a midifeld two suited him, but with Barton and Dabo behind him (along with two wing-backs) this gives him far more freedom and options and some of the link play between the midfield was excellent agains Southampton.

There are still problems though and none moreso than in attack. This seems to be evidenced by the chopping and changing Pearce has been doing (along with the constant rumours of a new striker arriving) although he seems to be favouring the hold up play of Corradi along with the movement of Vassell. The left wing back position is still far from sewn up with Jordan not convincing - which is why I was surprised at the decision not to sign Francesco Coco, although it has meant we are spared the procession of square pegs in round holes seen in left midfield.

Credit must go though to Pearce and the coaching team for identifying the problem areas we had and coming up with the formation and tactics to suit the personnel we have. As I noted in the Sheffield Wednesday review, there is a little bit of a buzz around the club now - and we have seen both Richards and Barton pledge their future to the club, in particular talking up the spirit within the squad.

Although we are far from the finished article, there are several significant pieces in place now, and the start we have had should be built upon and ensure 2007 is far more succesful than 2006 was.

I should Coco

Disappointing news that the club have cut short Francesco Coco's week long trial at the club, with Stuart Pearce saying:

"He had a couple of days with us, but we did not want
to waste his time, because I know he was trying to get a club sorted out after
being out of the picture at Inter, we did not feel as if it was right, but we
wish him all the best and if anyone phones me I'll give him a glowing
report".

A shame this one as I thought he would be ideal as an attacking full-back and Stephen Jordan again didn't convince in that role. Perhaps Distin will see an extended run in that position with a back three of Richards-Dunne-Onouha?

City 2 Sheffield Wednesday 1

It followed a typical pattern of a few FA Cup replays I've seen us involved in, whereby we should have controlled the game after going 1-0 up but allowed the opposition an avenue back into the game before ultimately putting the game away.

I thought Wednesday were less impressive overall than in the first game - and particularly Chris Brunt was less involved in their build up play, but they played well in patches and enjoyed some measure of success down the flanks rather than through the middle.

The game should have been well under control by the time Stephen Ireland did put us ahead. Darius Vassell had a couple of one on one chances early in the game but reminiscent of the first game a poor touch let him down on more than one occasion. It was a well worked goal, with a good delivery from Barton setting Ireland up to slot home nicely for a lead which we should have held.

Much like the first game though, we allowed Wednesday back into the game not too long after. From a free-kick down our left hand side, a well delivered ball was met by the head of (leaving Sinclair static) to glance past Weaver to level matters.

Despite Weaver making a couple of smart saves - although not overly tested, it was more huff and puff from Wednesday than them really threatening us and I felt that in the second half we made good use of space with the midfield trio linking well.

And it was the first half villain Vassell who finally put the game to rest with a nice finish from the edge of the box following another good move - which resulted in the guy sat in front of me taking his coat off to display his Vassell shirt which he had covered following his first half performance.

We had a couple of further chances late in the game with substitutes Samaras and Beasley getting in good positions but not managing to capitalise and put the game really beyond doubt. Still, once we went 2-1 ahead it seemed to deflate Wednesday and the result was never really in doubt.

A decent overall performance, and one positive is the fact that the players are fitting well into the tactics and formation that is currently being adopted. I really do think that it suits the players we have far better than a 4-4-2 or 4-5-1, and we do look a far more fluent side at the moment - not that there are still things to work upon though but things do look healthier at the moment than they have done for some time.

One disappointment though was the crowd - coming in at just over 25,000 but there were probably mitigating factors to explain the low number and it should be a higher figure in round 4 with a winnable home game against Southampton -and there is a little bit of a buzz around the club based on performances and results over the past month.

Reaction:

"You could see why so many clubs want him. He was all over
the pitch." - Brian Laws on Joey Barton.

Reports:

The Guardian

The Telegraph

The Times

'Takeover bid' rejected

It was reported that an unknown consortium had bid £10 million to take control of the club.

Details are a little sketchy but it is believed that the offer included £5 million for John Wardle and David Makin to write off the loan amounts they have made to the club.

It is difficult to treat the story with too much seriousness at this stage with so little detail behind it, but the figures that have been suggested seem fanciful at the very least - and although it is believed Wardle and Makin may accept a suitable bid which will include the return of their loans, it is inconceivable to think an offer anywhere near this amount would be remotely considered by the board.

Transfer rumour round-up - January 17th

Main news yesterday was centred around the future of Joey Barton, with Everton having confirmed they had been rebuffed in their approach for the midfielder. What is strange is that it is well known Barton has the release clause in his contract (triggered at £5.5 million) that allows him to speak to other clubs, so what amount did Everton offer?

Presumably it wasn't this amount as surely the club would have to grant permission for Barton to have the opportunity to speak with Everton. It does seem that Everton will not be back for him though as later in the day Barton has confirmed he is happy at City:

"I've stated on record I don't want to leave this
football club....I'm playing good football here, I'm happy, we are going in the
right direction and people are trying to unsettle me but I am settled here and
happy here and happy to play football for this football club....I'm happy, I'm
playing good football and the team is going forward.
"I've got a manager who
believes in me and a football club who I am proud to play for and I am totally
settled at this football club at this present time."

Still, it didn't stop The Mirror this morning from stating 'Stu faces battle to keep Barton' - despite printing in the article Barton's comments that he has no interest in leaving.

Judging by another strong performance in last nights victory over Sheffield Wednesday, it is imperative that we keep Barton as there are signs over a promising trio in midfield along with Dabo and Ireland - and although £5.5 million would be a sizeable fee, it would take that and more to replace what he currently offers the side.

Elsewhere, it seems that any efforts to sign Spanish striker Kepa may be coming to an end, as although it was earlier reported that we were close to a deal, Sky Sports later claimed that Charlton were the front-runners and set to head off any late bid from ourselves.

This could open the way for a move for Argentinian striker Fernando Cavenaghi - who is currently unsettled at Spartak Moscow. Cavenaghi was somewhat of a prodigy at River Plate but has struggled to replicate this form in Russia and it maybe that an initial loan move could secure him with a view to a permanent move in the summer - although a fee for both a loan and permanent move scuppered a move to Racing Santander.

Transfer rumour round-up - January 15th

As posted earlier, we have taken Italian Francesco Coco on trial, and he could be followed by Sevilla forward Kepa Blanco Gonzalez who is expected to join this week in a loan move until the end of the season. Currently not a regular, he has nevertheless scored six goals in eight starts this season and will provide another option to our hardly firing strike force.

One player not joining is Shaun Wright-Phillips who Stuart Pearce has conceded defeat with as in his words he concedes "We have been quoted a price that is a million miles away from our budget. That is the end of it really".

As I have said before, we were never seriously in the running for Wright-Phillips and if one good thing comes of this, it maybe that speculation regarding the departure of Micah Richards is finally put to bed.

City take defender on trial

Another player arriving at the club today is Italian defender Francesco Coco, who has been handed a one week trial at the club.

Coco, still just 30 has a good pedigree in the game having signed for Milan as a youngster as an heir apparant to Paolo Maldini. Things did not quite pan out at Milan, but he spent time on loan at Torino and Barcelona before making a permanent switch to Inter (in exchange for Clarence Seedorf) and earning 17 Italian caps in the process.

Struggling with injuries at Inter, he has never been in favour with coach Roberto Mancini and spent last season on loan at Livorno before falling further behind in the pecking order following the signing of Fabio Grosso.

For me, he could be an interesting signing as he can play left back and a more advanced role and I see him as the ideal player on the left side in Pearce's 3-5-2 formation and he shouldn't command too much of a fee to make the move permanent.

Injury history could count against him, but I think he could be worth a contract to the end of the season at least and if things work out he will be a very useful acquisition.

If things don't work out, he could be a headline writers dream.

Wigley praises Academy

As Stuart Pearce was off re-enacting the Great Escape (see right) following Saturday's draw, it was left for Steve Wigley to conduct the post-match interviews and he made special mention of the academy:

“We’ve got a fantastic academy and we work the area probably
better than any side in the North,” Wigley said. “They are fortunate that
they’ve got a manager [Stuart Pearce] who puts young players in the team. It
gets easier to attract kids because you can say: ‘Well, he’s playing in the
team’. Stephen Ireland, Nedum Onuoha, Micah Richards, Joey Barton and Ishmael
Miller, they’ve all come through the academy. To try and buy players of that
quality costs you millions. The future is bright.”

Particular praise from the majority of the press seems to be focused on Nedum Onouha, and he is certainly the main beneficiary from the decision to revert to three at the back. He never quite looked comfortable at right-back - although feeling his way back to full fitness can't have helped, but has looked far more at ease in a central position.

Hopefully, after falling behind in the pecking order at club and international level, Onouha can now make up for lost time.

Bolton 0 City 0

A dire game by all accounts, with a much better showing from ourselves than the home fixture some three weeks ago - and we continue our unbeaten run since the 2-0 defeat.

Most reports I have seen seem to be attempting to outdo each other with descriptions of how dull the game was, with Joey Barton's miss seemingly the only highlight of an otherwise unforgettable encounter.

Still, it is a measure of our progress over the last month that we are now unbeaten in five (including the FA Cup) and we have gone three games unbeaten away from home in the league without conceding a goal - something which would have been unthinkable earlier in the season.

With Bolton's form (particularly at home) this season, I think we have to be happy with a point gained - just glad I was back playing myself and didn't have to endure the game live.

Of course, we now move onto more important matters this Tuesday with the FA Cup replay against Sheffield Wednesday.

Reaction:

"We've got a lot of pace and power at the back and our
change of system playing three centre-halves helped us get a result against a
very good team." - Steve Wigley.

"We were below par, it wasn't the best of games," but City deserve credit for their defending, they stopped our front three." - Sam Allardyce.

Reports:

The Sunday Times
The Independent
The Telegraph
Bluesology
Walking down the Manny Road

Lucky Corradi

From today's 'Said & Done' section of The Observer Sport:

"Corradi has me....I've never met a man quite like him.
He's sweet, well educated and knows how to treat a lady right. And heaven knows,
that's not so usual for a footballer".

So says Italian model Elena Santarelli. And for those not familiar with Elena, check here, here, here or here.

Lucky Corradi indeed.

Bolton preview

Where and when:

Reebok Stadium, Saturday 13th January 2006.

Current form:

Bolton are second in the Premiership form table, and currently boast their highest points return at this stage of the season and are seeking their fourth consecutive home win, and sixth in seven games overall.

Premiership wise, we go in on the back of two away Premiership victories and are unbeaten in four overall since the defeat at home to Bolton around three weeks ago. A victory would give us four consecutive Premiership wins for the first time since 1992.

Team news:

There shouldn't too many changes for ourselves, with only Barton expected to return to the side following his suspension. Hatem Trabelsi may likely miss out after going off injured in last weeks game at Hillsborough.

Keys to the game:

I was quite impressed with Bolton in the fixture at home, as they were far less reliant on the more direct approach that we have seen in recent times - the addition of Anelka and form of Diouf has certainly allowed them to alter their style a little.

Allardyce got his tactics and approach spot on, and his side are ready and seem to know exactly what their jobs are. Pearce has shown some encouraging signs of late in being far more flexible and adaptable tactically and needs to match Allardyce in this respect.

City link:

Nicolas Anelka enjoyed a happy return a couple of weeks ago, and has settled in well at Bolton.

Why City will win:

The switch to 3-5-2 has seen us look a more adept side Premiership wise, and has seen us pick up a pair of 1-0 away victories in tight, close games. This will continue and we will do to Bolton what they have done to many sides over the past few seasons.

Why City will lose:

With the addition of Anelka, it has given Bolton a new dimension to their play and the tactical approach of Allardyce will outfox Pearce. We could also have one eye on Tuesday's replay against Sheffield Wednesday.

Prediction:

Bolton 1 City 0

Mass exodus?

From todays Guardian:

Manchester City began what promises to be a period of
extensive transfer activity when they sold Ben Thatcher to Charlton Athletic
yesterday in a deal worth £500,000. Stuart Pearce hopes to spend the money on
new recruits but first he must prevent a larger exodus of players, with City in
danger of becoming the Premiership club who lose the most in the transfer
window.
Three successive league victories may have lifted Pearce's team into
the top half of the Premiership table but behind the scenes it is proving to be
an unsettling month for Pearce, with no progress in the club's preliminary
takeover talks and doubts persisting about the future of several influential
players, including the defenders Sylvain Distin and Micah Richards. City have
had difficulties trying to sign players and the manager admitted last night that
it was becoming an "awkward window".
Pearce, who has described his squad as "thin", wanted
to bring in a left-sided player and a striker. "We've made many, many phone
calls in the last few weeks but the general message is that no one wants to sell
their players," he said. "I dread to think how much time I have spent on the
phone. Everybody wants to buy somebody to shuffle their pack but nobody wants to
sell anyone."
His problems have been exacerbated by the financial
restrictions imposed on him in the wake of Kevin Keegan's free- spending days as
manager. However, it is the number of players who may leave the City of
Manchester stadium which is causing the club's supporters the most
anxiety.

Hamman listed in top 20 'worst signings'

The Independent today published a list of the top twenty 'worst signings of the summer' (sorry can't find a link to the story), and amongst the list of 'notable' players was Didi Hamman -who came in around fifth place.

It is fair to say that his City career has been nothing short of a washout thus far, as injury and lack of match sharpness has restricted his appearances. I thought when we signed him in the bizarre Liverpool-Bolton-City triangle he would be an excellent pick up as his performances at Liverpool were still at a quality level, and thought he would be the ideal partner in the middle alongside Joey Barton.

Unfortunately though, his performances when fit haven't backed this up and he is going down as a flop based on the first half of the season. Hopefully, he can regain full fitness - although it has been suggested from more than one source that the different training regime at City from his time at Liverpool is not helping in that respect, and he can get a good run in the side over the second half of the season and begin to prove his worth.

Incidentally, no guesses for who came in as the worst signing.

Transfer rumour round-up - January 11th

UPDATE: The departure of Thatcher has been confirmed with the club stating a fee of £500,000 (possibly rising to £750,000) being involved. Alan Pardew has been talking about the 'harder edge' Thatcher will bring but no real word out of City for the reasons behind the sale. It's a decent fee to receive for him but as noted in the comments section earlier it does leave us light in that position, particularly as Jordan is struggling.

One confirmed departure in that Kaspar Schmeichel gets a chance to gain experience with a loan until the end of the season with SPL side Falkirk. Bury were alos interested but the move north of the border should provide a greater test for Schmeichel and all in all will be a good step for him.

Stuart Pearce has confirmed that the 'big three' are untouchable, and have not received any bids for either Distin, Barton or Richards and that he is not looking to sell. As the guys at the Supporters Trust say, it is good to see Pearce come out and state this to (hopefully) quash speculation regarding the trio and if any clubs are generally interested then it will take bids of stupid proportions to even entertain consideration.

Following on from Claudio Reyna, Danny Mills could also be on his way with Pearce willing to listen to offers for the out of favour full-back. It speculates that whether Mills would be prepared to take a signifcant drop in wages over the next two and half years remains to be seen, but from some of the comments I have seen from Mills he is keen to move away to get playing football once again.

Another player possibly on his way - and a little bit of a surprise perhaps, is a Tribal Football article (taken from the Times - although I've not managed to pick anything up on their site) which suggests Charlton have agreed a £100,000 fee for Ben Thatcher. A surprise for me in that since returning from his ban, Thatcher has been in pretty good form. Perhaps under the new formation adopted by Pearce he feels he no longer fits in, and Stephen Jordan has got the nod in recent games. I'll post more on this later if it is confirmed as a deal.

Stuart Pearce has been commenting on his manouvering and how he hopes to strengthen the squad:

"I am busy talking to managers at the moment about
players in and out and we just have to be hopeful that we get the players we
want in.
"If you can knock a fellow manager's head off with a price normally
that forces a deal through and if you can't do that then you have to be a bit
clever and do a swap of a player here or there.
"We will keep plugging away
and hopefully somewhere down the line we will get one or two fresh faces in
here. We are well aware of our shortcomings and what we need. I think this squad
would flourish if I could bring in another three or four quality players but
that luxury would cost £20m-£25m,"

It is quite tacit (but unsurprising) admission from Pearce which all but confirms that any players brought in will be through wheeling and dealing and 'no money sloshing around in the accounts' really does mean that. Freeing up the wages of Reyna and possibly Mills and Thatcher therefore appear to be a priority and hold the key to any new arrivals in January.

City sign midfielder

On the heels of the departures of Claudio Reyna and Ben Thatcher, it was announced today that French midfielder Djamel Abdoun has joined on loan for the remainder of the season - with a view to a permanent deal.

Abdoun, just twenty years old, arrives from Ligue 2 side Ajaccio (who were relegated last season). He arrives as a surprise as as far as I know there was no reports linking him with a move, although the nature of the deal doesn't surprise me and Pearce was probably waiting until Reyna and Thatcher headed for the exit door to free up the finance to bring him in.

I don't confess to know anything about Abdoun, but L'Equpie has this profile of him.

Goal-keeping log jam

With the news that Kaspar Schmeichel is poised to join Falkirk on a season long loan, and in joining fellow youngster Joe Hart in the 'on-loan' ranks it spells positive news for our goalkeeping future.

The fact that Stuart Pearce is able to farm out two young keepers shows the strength we have with our two senior keepers Nicky Weaver and Andreas Isaksson, in a position which looked a little precarious going into the season on the back of David James' departure.

Having four quality keepers on the books obviously allows Pearce to be flexible in helping Hart and Schmeichel gain valuable experience and it could signal an interesting battle between the pair to be our next goalkeeper.

For all that Weaver has done in coming back from terrible injuries and performing at the level he has done, I still cannot see him being the long term number 1. I have come across stories that suggest Isaksson will not be too keen on hanging around if he does not have the number 1 position by the end of the season.

Of course, Weaver is yet to sign a new deal but it is surely a done deal that he will sign beyond this season which may not be good news for Isaksson but would open up a chance behind Weaver for either Hart or Schmeichel.

Roughly of a similar age, both have impressive physical tools but Hart perhaps has the edge in terms of pecking order at the moment and has already made one appearance this season (away at Wigan), but Schmeichel has his plaudits too and it will be interesting to watch them develop over the next few seasons to see if either of the pair can steal a march on the other to get a shot at being the keeper.

Keeping them both happy in the long term will be a tough job for Pearce and is likely that one will end up moving on, but as it stands it looks like it will shape up to be an interesting battle between the two to be the ultimate top dog.

Reyna to return home

The Mirror today confirms the story that Claudio Reyna is to return home to the States to play for New York Red Bulls - a move that will save the club an estimated £600,000 in wages on the remaining months of his deal, hopefully money which can be channelled elsewhere for recruits before the end of January.

Reyna's career has followed a similar pattern to that of Trevor Sinclair's (see previous post), and on his exit from the club has made one particular all-time City team.

Sinclair hopes for new deal

A quiet day on the news and transfer rumour front, with the main story dominating City news and column inches is Trevor Sinclair hoping to extend his current deal which ends in the summer.

I certainly don't see Stuart Pearce offering a new deal before the season ends (certainly if Weaver hasn't had a new deal on the table), but is he likely to be with us beyond this season? At times he has shown some decent form - particularly a spell over the first-half of last season was possibly his most impressive (and came in the wake of Wright-Phillips departure), but in the main it has been a stuttering City career as he has never managed to fully avoid injuries.

The problem Pearce faces is we have a relatively thin squad, and if players do leave they do (or should) have to be replaced so the danger if Sinclair's contract is not renewed is are we short of cover? On the flip-side is if we do offer a new deal and he continues to suffer from injuries then we are on the hook for his wages which could have been spent elsewhere (as is the case with Sun-Jihai).

I cannot see Pearce offering any more than a one-year deal to Sinclair - and would be disappointed if he did, and I also expect Sinclair to have to wait until the season end - when Pearce may have more of an idea of who he hopes to bring in for next season.

Transfer rumour round-up - January 8th

The Sunday Mirror reported yesterday that West Ham are to make a £10 million bid for Joey Barton. Puzzles me this one, as most of the press speculate that Barton has a £5.5 million escape clause so why West Ham would bid £10 million is a strange one.

Sylvain Distin was again the subject of speculation this weekend with Chelsea believed to have moved away from Micah Richards and are preparing a £3 million bid for the defender, whilst the Daily Mail reports that Tottenham made a 'cheeky' £500,000 offer for soon to be out of contract defender. Distin himself though told the clubs website:

"I want to stay playing in the Premiership and my
preference is to stay here at Manchester City.
"The next contract I will
sign is very important for me as I am now 29 years old and I need everything to
be correct with it.
"I have ambition and I want to make sure that the next
contract I sign is with somebody who has the same ambitions as me."

One player seemingly on the way out though is Claudio Reyna, who is believed to moving back to the MLS for family reasons. Whilst it hasn't been confirmed, Stuart Pearce did state:

"For his personal reasons, we are in talks with him and
his representatives due to that he might want to go back to the States".
"That's purely a family scenario. Until anything is resolved on that, he
stays a Manchester City player".

Alledged target Samir Nasri has refuted claims he is set for a move to the club, whilst not being one to wildly speculate, Paul Dickov was seen on a flight from Manchester to Southampton earlier today. A possible exit on the cards?

FA Cup 4th round-draw

Should we progress through the replay against Sheffield Wednesday we will face a home tie against Championship side Southampton in round four.

It looks to be a decent enough draw and one which I'm sure Stuart Pearce would be happy with.

Full draw:

Arsenal v Bolton
West Ham v Watford
Bristol City or Coventry City v Hull City or Middlesbrough
Chelsea v Nottingham Forest
Chester City or Ipswich Town v Swansea
Cardiff City or Tottenham v Southend Utd or Barnsley
Barnet or Colchester v Peterborough or Plymouth Argyle
Birmingham City or Newcastle United v Reading or Burnley
Derby County v Bristol Rovers
Sheffield Wednesday or Manchester City v Southampton
Crystal Palace v Preston North End
Manchester United v Portsmouth
Blackpool v Norwich City
Queens Park Rangers or Luton Town v Blackburn Rovers
Wolverhampton Wanderers or Oldham v WBA
Leicester City or Fulham v Stoke City

The ties will be played on Friday 26, Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 January.

Sheffield Wednesday 1 City 1

It was a day spent under cover for Bitter and Blue, as knowing a couple of Sheffield Wednesday fans I took my seat in the Kop as opposed to the away end. It seemed a decent atmosphere generated by the Wednesday fans (if they were a little one-eyed) and at least confirmed to me that we are not the only side to dread having Graham Poll in charge.

The first-half was by and large a forgettable affair, with only the repeated cries of 'pud 'im int' stand lad' from the guy behind me every time a City player got the ball living in the memory. Samaras for Corradi, as expected was the only change from the Everton game but he failed to impose himself too much on the game, and there was too much of a gap between the midfield and attack. Darius Vassell also seemed intent on breaking Darren Huckerby's single game offside record.

The second half came to life though, with Wednesday seeming to up the impetus and in particular getting the impressive Chris Brunt more into the game and they began to attack with more pace than in the first-half. I thought we passed it around well, but were not clinical enough with the final ball or the final move. Defensively we were playing well with the back trio of Distin, Dunne but most notably Onouha coping with all that came their way.

Set-pieces were causing a problem though us with the difference in delivery from Brunt compared with those of Dabo striking. Delivered at pace and accuracy they continually caused problems and only a smart clearance from Samaras prevented us going behind, whilst Weaver also pulled off a couple of smart saves.

At the other end, we managed to create space out wide and this opened up a good chance for Vassell, but his heavy first touch allowed Crossley (complete with glass-back) to make the save. I was convinced we would get one clear-cut chance though and a previously anonymous Micah Richards - perhaps lucky to still be on the field, broke into the box and was brought down for what seemed to be a clear cut penalty - much to the chargrin of the home fans though.

Samaras stepped up to put us 1-0 ahead and what should have been the game. However, barely 60 seconds later the game was back all-square as Wednesday broke and a nice finish from McLean evaded Weaver's dive. It was a nervy final ten minutes or so following their equaliser and in the end I guess we were fairly happy to take the draw and come back to ours for the replay.

Good on the day: Nedum Onouha. Far more comfortable in the centre than at right-back,
Bad on the day: Stephen Jordan. Distribution was woeful and definitely taken a step backwards.

Kudos to the board for pegging the tickets for the replay at £15 - hopefully this should ensure a decent crowd.

Match reports:

The Independent

The Telegraph

The Times

Reaction:

"It would have been a travesty if we hadn't because I
thought we edged it over the 90 minutes.
"We gave them too much respect in
the first half and we needed to take the game to them but the passing in the
second half was sensational at times.
"We are playing exceptionally well
away from home so we'll go into the replay with confidence and you never
know." - Brian Laws.

"It was a typical Cup tie in that there was not much
given by either side. We both feel as though we might have won it so a draw
is fair.
"I don't think our work is done yet because I think it might be
an even harder game at our ground.
"Credit to them and Brian Laws. I'm pleased
for him but I won't be pleased to see him Tuesday week." - Stuart Pearce.

Season so far

You can check out my 'season so far' which appeared in todays Observer Sport.

How stressful are City to support?

A report released this weeks ranks us as the 25th most stressful club in the Football League to support, although we are placed as second overall in the Premiership (behind Portsmouth).

The report uses a number of factors including the 'yo-yo effect', ie regular movement between divisions/leagues due to promotions and relegations, losing matches from a winning position, financial problems at the club, changes in club ownership and frequent changes in manager

The reports summary of City is as follows:

Once the archetypal 'yo-yo club', in seven seasons between
1995 and 2002 City were relegated three times and promoted three times. They
went from the Premiership to Division Two and back again. The reason they do not
figure higher in our Top 50 is that City now seem to be a much more stable club,
more likely to be found mid-table than scrapping at either end of the league.
Nor have there been any cup shocks since Division Two Cardiff City beat the
Premiership boys in the FA Cup fourth round in 1994. The Blues also appear to
have put the brakes on the managerial merry-go-round. There were six new name
plaques on the boss's door in the 1980s, and the same in the 1990s, but so far
in this decade there have been only two.

Looking at the list I'm sure there are some contentious placings.

Etuhu sent out on loan

Youngster Kelvin Etuhu has joined League 2 side Rochdale on an initial months loan, which should be a good move for a player who, on the couple of times I've seen him looks to be a good player and of a similar talent to the much-heralded Daniel Sturridge.

On the subject of young players, The Times ran a series of articles this week on young players and club academies. The first featured City and the article can be read here, and picking out the paragraphs on City (and Jim Cassell):

"The clubs, in turn, would point to the noticeboard in
Manchester City’s Platt Lane academy training complex, where there hangs a
framed picture of the most recent home-grown boy to break into the first team.
The face in the frame at present is Michael Johnson, who made his City debut
against Wigan Athletic in October.
A youngster coming through the system all
the way to the top is a statement of success, which is why there is a frame next
to Johnson’s picture that remains forever empty, except for the words: “Who’s
next?” Every day at training, the City boys are asking themselves: “Am I next?”
So far, 20 faces have been in that frame, an astonishing record and a sign that
the development of local boys is not a flawed concept."

Sheffield Wednesday preview

Where and when:

Sunday January 7th 1006, Hillsborough.

Current form:

Both sides go into this encounter on the back of some impressive recent form. City with three successive victories whilst Wednesday have surged up the table since Brian Laws took over as manager, although they had a set back in their last game against Hull.

Team news:

Sheffield Wednesday defender Madjid Bougherra is suspended while Wayne Andrews has returned to Coventry, but Wade Small is fit after a knee injury. David Graham is available after returning from a loan spell Steven MacLean is hoping for a recall.
Stephen Ireland is expected to return after a hamstring injury, but maybe content with a place on the bench. Joey Barton is suspended while Claudio Reyna and Dietmar Hamann remain out injured.

Keys to the game:

We have had a habit of struggling against lower division sides away from home under Pearce, with performances as abject as the result themselves. I feel we need to assert ourselves on the game early, and match them physically so our superior ability should show through.

Defensively, we will no doubt come under pressure so a strong Dunne-Distin partnership is vital whilst the midfield needs to turn in a strong performance.

City link:

Former City youngster Glenn Whelan will get the chance to show what we missed out on by letting him go, whilst Nicky Weaver returns to the club where he spent part of last season on loan - a move which rebuilt his career following his terrible run of injuries.

Why City will win:

We will have too much quality for a Wednesday side who are probably playing above themselves of late. Buoyed by a three-game winning streak we should have the confidence to control the game.

Why City will lose:

It has the potential to be an upset as we go to a lower division side bang in form with a big crowd behind them. Plus Graham Poll is refereeing.

Prediction:

Sheffield Wednesday 1 City 2.

Plain ridiculous

From todays The Mirror.

Transfer rumour round-up - January 5th

A couple more younger Coca-Cola league players have been linked with us today, firstly Will Hoskins of Rotherham United who has a good strike record this season and Greg Halford of Colchester - who has been linked previously with us and is reported to be interested several other Premiership sides.

The Guardian reports today that we are 'braced' for a bid of £20 million for Micah Richards. Of all the papers, they seem to be the one pushing the Richards move story most of all and say 'Richards does not intend to force the issue but it has become apparent that he wants to move to Stamford Bridge and his transfer now seems to be only a question of timing and finance' indicating we may be trying to hold off a move until the summer. Incidentally, Chelsea are rumoured to be interested in defenders Robert Ayala or Phillipe Mexes.

Clubcall reports that ourselves and Blackburn are set to fight it out for David Dunn, and a bid of between £1-£2 million could land the Birmingham midfielder, whilst The Mirror suggests Bruce could want Paul Dickov as part of any deal.

Ebi Smolarek has stated he would be interested in a move to the club, saying:

"Manchester City?, why not?
"It is definitely a good
squad which plays in the best league in the world".

One disappointment for me today was Fulham's signing of Vincenzo Montella from Roma on a loan until the end of the season. Montella is a class act who I think could have definitely added goals for us and I would have liked to have seen Pearce make a move for him.

Poll to referee FA Cup tie

It has been announced that Graham Poll will referee the 3rd round FA Cup tie this Sunday at Sheffield Wednesday.

I can feel the confidence draining from everyone reading this right now.

Transfer rumour round-up - January 4th

A relatively quiet day speculation wise with most of the big sites running the 'Distin might stay' story I commented on yesterday.

A couple of players are rumoured to be moving out on loan, the first being Danny Mills whom Hull hope to take on a second spell whilst Crewe are reported to be keen on Matthew Mills, who has made just one appearance this season.

As for players coming in, the latest striker to be added to the wanted list is Euzebiusz Smolarek, who the MEN ran their back page with today. Smolarek currently plays with Borrussia Dortmund and a likely fee of £2 million is reported.

Transfer rumour round-up - January 3rd

It seems unlikely that Stuart Pearce will be armed with a hefty transfer kitty, and that any funds available to him will be coming once again directly from the chairman's pocket:

"There is no money sloshing around the accounts, so I
don't imagine three successive league wins will have any bearing on the money I
get from the chairman.....and obviously, with the input he has had already,
there will not be a great deal coming to me.
"But there are no tricks and no
hidden money.
"We have said that from day one."

I guess that rules out any move for Shaun Wright-Phillips then.

Jose Mourinho has appeared to distance himself from rumours that they are interested in Micah Richards with his post game comments:

"But I am telling you with the reality of the English
market, I prefer to play with assistant Baltemar Brito as a central defender.
"He is 55, he was good central defender and I would rather play him than pay
the crazy money that people are looking. I promise you, I prefer that.
"It
is everybody, not just Manchester City.
"We didn't even speak with any club,
but just because of the smell that Chelsea needs one central defender at least
puts people dreaming or thinking we are stupid.
"I would love an Aston
Martin, but if you ask me (for) £1million for an Aston Martin, I tell you, you
are crazy because they cost £250,000."

I've said before that I can't see Chelsea making a move for Richards in the January window, and unless Mourinho is bluffing with these comments, it seems to back this up.

Sylvain Distin has not ruled out a stay at the club beyond this season, telling L'Equipe that "several clubs are asking for me, it's very nice but I haven't ruled out staying at City", whilst former City defender Mikkel Bischoff has moved back to Danish side Brondby on a free from Coventry City.

A bit for charity

A quick divert from the usual topic but a worthwhile one nonetheless.

A good friend is running the Edinburgh marathon at the end of May in aid of CLIC Sargent and is looking to raise £500 for them.

You can donate by clicking here or via the icon on the right hand side of the page - which I'll leave up there to indicate in true Blue Peter style exactly how much progress has been made towards the final target.

Good luck Si - and make sure there are some pics as proof!

The start of the January sales

Far more than when the August transfer window closes, the January window is surely the more crucial one, where virtually every team is looking to manouvere and improve on their squads for various reasons - to challenge for the title, try and desperately escape the drop zone or even just to jockey up a few more positions in the table to bring in some extra TV money.

Leading upto January the column inches began to fill with transfer news - much of it complete nonesense, but expect this to increase moreso from now on as teams will be looking to swing deals.

Most of the speculation around City is of course centering on who may be leaving the club with the trio of Richards, Distin and Barton being heavily focused on.

For me, none of them will be moving on in January window for the following reasons:

Much focus has been on the defensive frailties this season for Chelsea, but is Richards really the answer? John Terry will not be out for too long and I would think if they were to make a move for a defender it would be a short term one rather than one who is far from the finished article. If Chelsea are genuinely interested, they will wait until the summer before they move.

Barton has shown no sign of wanting to move on - in fact the opposite is true with him stating he doesn't want to leave. He has a rumoured 'release fee' clause but I feel he will only be tempted if one of the top four sides are interested - something that won't happen.

Distin has maintained a silence from the start of the season over his contract talks, but it was clear that sides like Middlesbrough or Portsmouth interest him. I believe he does want to remain at the club, but is ambitious and wants to play in Europe and for the French national side - something that doesn't appear likely at City. I feel he will stay for the remainder of the season before getting his move in the summer.

As for players coming in, from memory of last season the moves that Stuart Pearce made were at the end of the transfer window so if again he follows the same approach it may be a little while before anyone is brought into the club.

It is unknown exactly how much money Pearce has to play with, but estimates put it around £1-£2 million which doesn't give Pearce a lot of options, but one area that has been focused on in the media is the striking positions which have been a source of frustration this season.

Plenty of names from far and wide have been suggested, ranging from young players in the Championship to older players currently operating in Europe so it could be possible that he moves for a couple of younger players such as Billy Sharp and Billy Jones, whilst also bringing in a couple of loan signings to bolster the squad until the end of the season.

Throughout January, I'll be posting up regularly about all the speculation and news of players moving both in and out of the club.

City 2 Everton 1

If a week is a long time in politics, I'm not sure how you measure this past week in the life of Manchester City. Faced with two crucial 'six-pointers' at the bottom end of the table and a tricky home fixture against Everton on the back of three defeats, we have managed to turn things around with a nine point haul which has hoisted us up into the top half of the table and generated some confidence that had clearly drained from the side prior to the Christmas period.

The first half today was a forgettable affair, with a scoreless draw looking the most likely of the outcomes as neither side managed to create anything meaningful and time and again passes went astray and movement was non-existent.

The second half though was a different matter, as City appeared from the break with a renewed confidence about them and this translated into some impressive play going forward.

The keys for me for this change around were Micah Richards, Giorgios Samaras and DeMarcus Beasley. Richards, again in midfield had undoubtedly his best game since moving to a more advanced role and as well as breaking up opposition play he went on a few marauding runs forward which whilst not quite in the Vieira mould, at least back up my belief that he will ultimately be more suited to the midfield role. Samaras - again brought on for the ineffective Corradi, looked a different player today. Willing to run with the ball from deep, he put himself about and attacked with a confidence missing from his game for the majority of the season. His two goals were testament to this having first created the attack to find Beasley who teed him up for the opening goal, before slotting home well from the penalty spot.

Beasley too looked impressive. Surprisingly brought into the side at the expense of Ireland, he did not add a great deal to the first half but in the second looked lively, integrated well with Darius Vassell, was willing to run at the defence and most tellingly created chances - something which have been at a premium in most games this season.

I said after the Sheffield United game that what we needed to do was put an unbeaten run of ten games together which could really catapult us into European contention. Granted, that isn't something that has been seen this generation at the club but we have seen the effect that three wins in a row can have - moving from 2 to 11 points clear of the drop zone, whilst we are now only three points off seventh place.

Ultimately, I don't think the squad is strong or deep enough to really challenge for the European places, but this past week has shown that if you get on a roll and begin to pick points up then in this league where this a lack of consistency from virtually all sides out of the top four, then it can make a real difference.

Heading into next weeks FA Cup tie at Sheffield Wednesday on the back of three consecutive wins and a rising league position, at the very least it looks so much more brighter and positive than it did this time last week.

Reaction:

“We got in their faces man for man and showed more
energy than them. And from our leaden footed first half we looked like we were
the ones on the front foot and full of running.” - Stuart Pearce.

"I think we played well enough in the first half to go
on and win the game.
"We hoped to do the same in the second half. Manchester
City changed, and they upped the tempo a little bit, but for us to concede at
the start of the second half was really poor." - David Moyes.

Hart moves to Tranmere

With a surplus of keepers at the club at present, young keeper Joe Hart has moved to Tranmere on loan for a month.

West Ham 0 City 1

Finally we manage to put back to back victories together, and surprisingly (given the form this season) we do it in successive away games at places where conceivably we could have faced defeat and been dragged into an unwanted relegation battle.

Again, a 1-0 was sufficient to take three points and from the highlights it looked a similar encounter to the Boxing Day clash at Sheffield United where neither side really looked convincing or grab the game by the scruff of the neck to earn the points. But, a neat piece of football was good enough to get the goal and the points and whilst last time it was Stephen Ireland, this time around it was DeMarcus Beasley - beset by injury problems this season, who jinked through a couple of defenders before neatly slotting home.

Whilst much was made of our home form earlier in the season, perhaps playing away from home with the new formation suits us even more, as it allows us to sit back a little and pass the onus onto the home side to come at us to try and take the points, which allows us to be more patient and catch sides on the break.

Player wise, Corradi was again withdrawn for Samaras and Jordan didn't look entirely comfortable in a more advanced role. Defensively, by and large we were solid once again with Dunne and Distin seemingly having gotten rid of the errors which they have prone to in recent games.

Worryingly though, there was a piece in the Independent (sorry no link) which put us second bottom in the 2006 calendar year table (only Charlton have a worse record) so although we have climbed clear of the sides in trouble we are far from out of the woods yet.

Reaction:

"It's game on now. We have had two glorious opportunities to
push ourselves out of it and not taken them. City have accepted two glorious
opportunities in the last two games and they now see themselves in mid-table. So
that is what we have got to be looking at. It can turn around but you have got
to pick points up".

- Alan Curbishley.

"We were disappointed with the home game at Bolton,
we've regrouped in crucial games against Sheffield United and here today.
They've responded well.
"They've been in a tough battle, but we've come out
on top and we've nicked a goal.
"I've got to compliment the team because
they've got a win at a tough place." - Stuart Pearce.

Match reports:
The Independent

Hammered