Richards injury more serious than first thought

Sven-Goran Eriksson, the Manchester City manager, has confirmed that Micah Richards will be sidelined for six weeks after surgery on his knee.

The 20-year-old England international had an operation to repair damaged cartilage in his right knee on Wednesday. The absence of the powerfully-built defender is a major blow for City, who are hoping to secure a place in European competition next season. Richards will also miss England's friendly away to France in Paris on March 26.

Eriksson admitted the loss of Richards at the key stage of the season was a major blow.

“It is bad news,” he said. ”He was operated on yesterday in London. I spoke to the medical people before the operation and they thought six weeks and they now think the same. He will probably be away around six weeks.

>> The Times.

Initial reports did state a 'couple of weeks', but today's announcement makes it more likely he will until after Easter, meaning he will miss at least half of the remaining games this season.

With this injury, it probably does seem likely he was carrying a problem over the past few weeks and the club were perhaps hoping to get him through to the end of the season before surgery was the option.

One thing that is perhaps easy to forget is Richards in only 19 years of age and it is unrealistic to expect someone of that age (even with his physical prowess) to be able to complete the rigours of a full Premier League season, and the hope will clearly be that he will be a quick healer and the rest he will have will prove beneficial for him to get back at full capability for the crucial run in.

Thaksin returns to Thailand

The former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra flew back home today for the first since he was ousted in a coup 17 months ago, and immediately surrendered to immigration police who arrested him on corruption charges.
Within minutes of stepping off a Thai Airways flight from Hong Kong, the billionaire tycoon emerged from Bangkok airport's VIP reception area, knelt down and placed his forehead on the ground.
Thousands of supporters who had gathered at the airport - some waiting overnight - cheered, sang and waved placards proclaiming: "We Love Thaksin". Looking emotional he moved to the front of his entourage and offered a traditional Thai bow, hands clasped in respect.
Police whisked him off in convoy of limousines to the supreme court to answer the corruption charge over a land deal while he was in office. He was quickly bailed for 8m baht (£132,000) pending the first hearing next month, and barred from leaving the country without the court's permission.

>>The Guardian.

Considering the column inches some of the previous news regarding his legal issues received, there has not been a great amount of coverage of Thaksin's arrest yesterday, largely I believe because whilst Thaksin being arrested would at one stage have been headline news, him being arrested on arrival in Thailand was hardly him being bundled away following a dawn raid.

In fact, his arrest turned more into a welcome home party, accompanied by political allies and drinking champagne before falling to his knees and kissing the ground upon arrival. Quite what Kelvin Etuhu and Kaspar Schmeichel made of it all in their capacity as designated 'coaches' - a strange move given the stage of the season we are at.

He also found time to give an interview to Reuters, outlining his plans to take the club to the next level and become a truly global player, and Sven was very much on side as well, giving his backing to his boss and the support he has received - particularly in the transfer market:

"Every time I meet him and the people working for him, it is the same. They want City to be bigger and better. He wants to create one of the biggest clubs in the world - and I hope that happens, of course."

The return home for Thaksin was clearly a well-planned and choreographed move, and despite him still having opponents in the country, it is clear that the charges he will face are not going to lead to him serving time in jail, and it will be extremely likely that the frozen assets will be duly returned - although not without some political manouevering and show.

This has become likely because - referring to this article in the Independent, as it appears the AEC (Asset Examination Committee) are facing difficulties in trying to make the charges stick - not least because they rely on funding from the government to operate, a government of course who (following the elections at the end of 2007) are pro-Thaksin and there are reports the AEC could well be dissolved, seeing Thaksin walk free. As one academic commentator stated "The military junta had a year to prosecute Thaksin and didn't. Their chance has gone."

The outcome does appear to be going entirely to plan for Thaksin, and is hardly a surprising outcome as he was not going to return from exile unless conditions were favourable for him to do so.

Whilst he is almost certain not to be convicted of the charges levelled against him, the Independent article does suggest it may not be entirely straightforward for him to see his entire assets released immediately.

As it was fantastically put, the newly-elected government will be wary of appearing to be too pro-Thaksin, not wanting to allow Thaksin to simply "walk straight up to a cashpoint and withdraw the lot", and I expect there to be a display of public bargaining before his assets are freed up, allowing him get on with his next stage of plans for the club.

Which could make things even more interesting.

Richards undergoes knee operation

Manchester City can confirm that Micah Richards has had an operation on damaged cartilage in his right knee.

The injury is a recurrence of the one that prevented him from playing against Sheffield United and Derby County earlier this year.

The 20-year-old travelled to London with club physiotherapist Ally Beattie for surgery today, and he will be out for a matter of weeks.

Club doctor Mark Whitaker said, “The operation has been successful, and Micah will begin a rehabilitation programme at Carrington starting tomorrow. The medical team will monitor his progress over the coming days and weeks.”

>>mcfc.co.uk

Fortunately, it doesn't sound too serious a problem (although it is a recurrence of an old injury), and hopefully Richards will not miss more than a couple of games.

On a brighter note, Michael Johnson came through another reserve game yesterday and I would hope he definitely comes into contention for Saturday's game against Wigan.

Thaksin to return from exile

The Manchester City owner Thaksin Shinawatra is expected to return from exile to Thailand tomorrow in an attempt to clear his name.

"I think and I believe that Thaksin will return on the 28th," said the Thai foreign minister Noppadon Pattama of the country's former prime minister, who was ousted in a bloodless 2006 coup and is wanted on a corruption charge relating to his wife's purchase of a prime piece of Bangkok real estate while in office.

>>The Guardian.

City 0 Everton 2

Not exactly riding the wave of euphoria following the derby win as we crashed back down with a defeat against a side we could ill afford to slip up against in view of how tightly congested the European positions are at the moment.

Sven decided to keep faith with those players who had served so well against United, with Corluka and Elano kicking their heels on the bench, but whilt Sven appeared pleased that we had a break last weekend, Everton played in between and I feel that we perhaps lost some momentum with the lay off.

A fair bit has also been written about our tactics, and that we are not ideally suited to chasing a game - more in control with the game being 0-0 or 1-0 up, and much like at Goodison Park earlier in the season we failed to create meaningful or incisive chances and got caught at the back.

Give some credit to Everton where it is due though as David Moyes has assembled a useful side the past few years - not panicking or throwing cash around wantonly, but building a good base and then adding the likes of Cahill, Johnson, Yakubu and Pienaar gradually to the side and like Sven said post-match, it does look in all probability that it will be a fight between the two Merseyside clubs for that final coveted Champions League position.

Although there are still eleven games left, it has put a serious dent in the Champions League hopes and we have a big fight on our hands to get a UEFA spot following Tottenham grabbing one of the available three spots with their Carling Cup win over Chelsea last weekend.

Competition is fierce amongst ourselves Portsmouth, Aston Villa, Blackburn and even West Ham, and a team will need to go on an impressive run over the final quarter of the season, although looking at our remaining eleven fixtures highlighted over at purelymancity, it does not appear (on paper at least) the toughest of run-ins overall.

We will though, need to find that winning streak again sooner rather than later.

Reports:
MEN
Toffeeweb
Telegraph
Guardian
Times
Independent

Manchester City V Everton

25/02/2008 - Eastlands - 8pm

In what seems like an eternity since the completion of the 'six easy points' at old trafford we finally get back to football and its a game im really looking forward too.

City will welcome back Elano, Corluka and hopefully Johnson to the squad, it will be interesting too see what changes Sven makes if any, especially given these quotes :

"To change a team that wins at Manchester United, I don't know. Maybe, maybe not.
"They are good decisions to have for everyone at the club, even the players as there should be competition.
"Many times in the year that has not been the case."

Benjani will certainly make his home debut, following on from scoring the winner against United on his first appearance for the club, and could well make himself an instant hero.

The blue scouse meanwhile will welcome back Yobo as they look to snatch back fourth place from their near rivals. City can go level on points with everton and stay in touch of a European spot with a win.

I expect an intense tactical battle in this one. I can't see there been many goals but im leaning towards a 1-0 city win.

City slip out of football rich list

The annual Deloitte Football Money League was revealed this week, and figures for the 2006/07 season show that we had slipped out of the top 20 after spending the previous couple of seasons amongst the big earners.

The report, based on generated revenue - match day, commercial and broadcast (as this graphic illustrates), as opposed to transfer sales, once again demonstrates the impact of TV rights, illustrates the power the Premier League clubs and Champions League qualifiers wield - and why we were an attractive proposition for Thaksin to acquire. In the top 20 there are six Premier League sides - the 'big four' plus Tottenham and Newcastle, and next seasons report predicts there could be half of the top 20 represented by the Premier League.

Although we have slipped out this year, no surprise given our lower broadcast and match day revenues from 2006/07, this year we are set to top the £100 million mark and it would be a major surprise if we did not 're-enter' close to the top ten, as the progress made on the field clearly translates into generating revenue.

The full report is definitely worth a look and is fantastically in-depth, and is downloadable from Deloitte here, and there is more over at Football Rants.

Hamman signs deserved extension

Manchester City can confirm that Dietmar Hamann has earnt an extra year on his current contract.

The German midfielder's form this term has been a revelation after injuries ruined his first year at City, with commentators from across the media hailing his performance in Sunday’s derby as crucial to City’s first win at Old Trafford in 34 years.

>>mcfc.co.uk

Well deserved, and in the light of his performances this season, not unexpected.

He was one of the players that I thought were 'on the block' in the light of Sven taking over at the club, largely on the back of his disastrous season with us during 2006/07 where injuries resulted in him never getting a run in the side.

From a reliable source, I was told (last season) that Hamman found the training and fitness methods at City (under Pearce) totally at odds with the set up he was used to at Liverpool, and this could well explain his lack of fitness (and ability to stay fit). It could also be said that he may well have simply found it difficult to adjust to a new club and new surroundings.

Whatever the issues of last season though, this year he has been a revelation and the quality in his play has really been something, and a definite lesson for the younger midfielders on the books.

He is, in my opinion, probably the current leader in the player of the year race as well.

Bojinov and Johnson return to action

Valeri Bojinov has marked his return to action with a goal as City's reserves held Newcastle at St James Park.

The Bulgarian striker has been out of action since sustaining a cruciate ligament injury just six minutes into his first start for the Blues against Manchester United last August. However after coming on as a second-half substitute gave the Blues a deserved equaliser in the first Barclays Premier Reserve League fixture since
December.

The summer signing from Fiorentina was on the bench to start with as City looked to give some first team squad members some valuable match practice with a two week gap in the Premier League fixture list looming. Michael Johnson started his first game since the Carling Cup tie against Spurs in December, the teenager having been hampered by a niggling abdominal injury.

>>mcfc.co.uk

Bearing in mind we are now on a fortnights break until the Everton game, hopefully both players will see some further action between now and then.

Johnson will clearly be closer to a return, and will be a big boost to us, but personally, I am looking forward to seeing Bojinov feature in the current side and given the length of time they have both been absent for, they will certainly come back fresh as we head towards the final, crucial stage of the season.

United 1 City 2

The one thing that I'm sure everyone can safely agree on in the aftermath of yesterdays derby win was how deserved the result was, and just rewards for a gameplan and execution that was as near perfect as it could have been.

For all the plaudits Sir Alex Ferguson has received over the years, yesterday all of the praise must be heaped on Sven and the backroom team as they completely out thought and out manouevered their United counterparts.

The line-up (given the injuries and suspensions) was perfect and the gameplan (clearly learnt in the light of the defeat against Arsenal) was spot on - to soak up all of the pressure in the opening fifteen minutes before counter-attacking to our strengths and utilising a wonderful performance from Benjani in the lone striker role as he dragged Ferdinand out of position time and again, allowing for Ireland, Petrov and Vassell to support and utilise the space afforded them.

I do think Ferguson missed a definite trick and got his team selection all wrong though. Clearly he must have seen Arsenal exploit us down both flanks, yet (with Rooney's absence) played (and kept) Ronaldo in far too central a position. Perhaps with a nod to nostalgia he opted for a (on paper) attacking line-up in midfield of Ronaldo, Giggs, Nani, Anderson and Scholes, leaving - to his cost, Carrick and Hargreaves on the bench, allowing for plenty of space between their defence and midfield to be exploited, which we duly did.

To single out individuals yesterday is difficult - and perhaps unfair, but as I mentioned in my preview on the blog, Hamman was a key player and I thought he was outstanding yesterday. It is often said great players seem to play the game with so much more time than everyone else -and whilst not annointing him as a world great, Hamman plays the game with such ease and with such calmness that it cannot fail but be a lesson and inspiration to the likes of Gelson, Johnson and Ireland. Speaking of Ireland, playing in the 'hole' behind the front man, more than compensating for the loss of Elano he turned in one of his most impressive games of the season so far, combining the inventiveness required along with supporting the midfield with his defensive responsibilities and linking superbly with Benjani.

Where the likes of Vassell, Bianchi, Samaras and Mpenza had gone (and largely failed) before him, I thought Benjani shone. Whilst appearing lightweight, he held the ball up well but most impressive for me was his movement in how he took Ferdinand with him and linked up superbly with Vassell, Petrov and Ireland. A definite impressive debut and no doubt won over a few of the doubters (myself included from my Observer preview) out there.

Whilst United had the lions share of possession and territorial advantage, in the areas where it counted they rarely threatened, and any danger that did occur was easily nullified by the duo of Richards and Dunne who earned the plaudits from the MOTD2 crew last night.

As for United, without Rooney they struggled and for the hype of Ronaldo (for the excellent talent that he is), without Rooney alongside him he does not appear able to carry a team forward when it really counts in the manner that the worlds true best player - Kaka, can do. Scholes and Giggs looked shadows of the players that have troubled us so much in the past and whilst never one for sentiment, Ferguson does run the risk of prolonging their United careers just that step too far.

One thing that will get slightly lost in yesterdays victory is just how important it was to pick up three points in the race for fourth spot given the wins for Villa, Everton and Portsmouth and that Liverpool were held at Chelsea. A win in a fortnights time at home to Everton could well put us fourth with just ten games remaining in the season and above all, this victory could really provide the impetus and springboard for this side to finish the season ona real high note.

A final note on yesterday regarding the minutes silence. I did expect it to be observed impeccably and so it was borne out. A lot of credit has come our way for the behaviour of the fans, but perhaps next time it would just have been nice not have been condemned by the media as a whole before an event even occurred.

Reports:

Red Issue
MEN
Guardian
BBC
Independent
Telegraph

Six Easy Points

.......and when we've won our derby day this is what we'll sing ...... Hark Now hear !!!

40 years since the last 'double' over united and they couldn't have picked a better day to repeat the feat. With the minutes silence impecabbly observed (though go see some of the self righteous whining on red issue) city put in a performance well above the standard of the last few weeks to firstly frustrate and then pick off united.

BBC match report

MCFC official site

Time to crack open another beer, and enjoy the day.

Viva la Sven

United preview

For the most part, Sunday's derby is something that has been largely overshadowed in the media because of the 50th anniversary of Munich, and it is a game which not many are expecting us to take too much from.

In addition to the loss of Elano through suspension following another rash tackle against Arsenal last week, Corluka will be a big loss at the back against a United side who do look to get down the flanks. It is a blow that Michael Johnson is still out as it leaves a problem on the attacking front, and either Stephen Ireland or Geovanni are likely to step in, and I expect a 4-5-1 formation with Benjani starting with Vassell out on the right.

Two key players for me in this for us are Hamman and Petrov. From an attacking perspective Petrov needs to have a huge day in the absence of Elano and much of our play will go through him, and in likelihood start with Hamman who will be responsible for breaking up United's play and kick-starting our attack.

Whilst Rooney is out for United, they still are side with huge talent and are on a superb run at home and will be looking to regain top spot in the title race. It is clear they will come out hard at us, and it is imperative we avoid the mistakes which cost us against Arsenal last weekend. It is also vital that we do not 'park the bus' as Sven referred to, and there will be space for us to exploit (despite their impressive defensive record) but it is vital we take any chances that come our way as despite our record at Old Trafford, there have been occasions where we have chances and not quite taken them.

It is going to be extremely difficult to come away with anything from this game, and perhaps sentiment and blue-tinted glasses are prompting this a touch, but maybe the weight of the occasion could get to the United team (as I believe happened against Bolton on the last big anniversary), and I'm going to tip us to come away with a 1-1 draw.

As for the minutes silence, it isn't something I'm going to go into too much depth over given the amount that has already been put out there so far (and is something I have touched on before) in the lead up both to the game and anniversary itself, and in some way the media have whipped the whole issue up into a frenzy where City fans have virtually been put on trial.

I can't help thinking that without the overwhelming media focus on the minute's silence, it would have not be such an issue where the worlds eyes are ready to condemn and the club are in a state of flux over what may or may not happen.

For me, the issue of Munich is one that passes by me really, given the event itself was something that occurred long before I was born, and not only that, but the aftermath of the event is not something that I experienced or have any emotional ties to. Obviously I am not a United fan or have any United connections, so there is not that history that I have grown up with either - but, equally I'm not oblivious to the tragedy that occurred and I can appreciate for many people it is something that is still prevalent and meaningful to this day.

The issue of the minutes silence though is something that I see as being very simple. The fact that there is even a discussion on whether to have a minutes applause instead is sad in itself, as applause is not something that should be considered, but equally, I do think it is sad that there is an expectation almost that City fans cannot be trusted and that the silence will be not be observed.

I'm sure given the coverage this particular issue has had means that there will be members of the media sharpening their knives in anticipation of condemning all City fans en masse, and as I mentioned I do think the club are scared stiff of anything happening, introducing a number of measures to try and prevent it (including I think playing on the memory of Frank Swift which I disagree with), and there was another 'plea' from Sven yesterday over this.

For what it's worth, I do expect the silence to be observed and all I would say regarding the minutes silence is to remember what it is for - not to celebrate all that is Manchester United, or show support for City, but simply to observe the memory of a number of people who died in a tragic accident.

Everything else around that is a different issue entirely and there has been far too much conjecture and hyperbole over the issue of the minutes silence already.

Simply observe it and then let's get on with the game.

Club backs Premier League's international ambition

Premier League Clubs have today unanimously agreed to further examine a proposal that creates a new round of 10 competitive fixtures to be played across the world over one weekend in January beginning season 2010/11.

This ‘international round’ would be in addition to the traditional 38 home and away matches each of the 20 Premier League Clubs currently play.

Premier League Chief Executive, Richard Scudamore, said: “We are proud the Barclays Premier League is viewed as the strongest domestic football competition in the world by fans at home and abroad, and we are committed to maintaining this position.

“The ‘international round’ is an exciting and innovative proposal that needs careful consideration before being introduced. However, this concept recognises the truly global appeal of the Barclays Premier League whilst understanding that the traditions of the English game have always underpinned our success.

“We believe that an ‘international round’ of matches will enhance the strength of the Barclays Premier League as a competition; create extra interest in all 20 Premier League Clubs at home and abroad; and allow increased investment in talent development and acquisition, facilities as well as our football development and community programmes.

“The globalisation of sport is both an opportunity and a challenge; one that needs addressing in a responsible way. We are a better competition for being a cosmopolitan league and have benefited from our increased international reach. Nonetheless, it is critical we retain our English character by improving our efforts to produce home grown talent, deepening our commitment to community engagement and continuing our investment in the grass roots.”

A City spokesperson said: “This is an excellent idea and merits further consideration. Manchester City has a huge international following and we have recently announced a global alliance with six partner clubs from around the world which reflects the growing international interest in our Club and Premier League football.”

>>mcfc.co.uk

Not surprising given our own expansion plans throughout the world this season, and that we are one of the sides with foreign ownership. It is not an unexpected announcement and something I posted about back in October, and whilst it is inevtiable a move such as this will eventually take place and progress and money undoubtedly talk, the scale of it and how it will be integrated into the season is a big surprise to me, and has already met a mixed response from the clubs and vociferous opposition from the football community, and even led to Gordon Brown weighing in on the issue.

The BBC have a great look at the explosion the Premier League has undergone, and whilst there is inevitability about the whole thing given the foreign influx of owners looking for a return on their sizeable investments, not only have the fans been sidestepped over this, they have been complety disregarded in the search for the dollar, yen and whatever other currency is likely to bid to stage games.

My own belief was that the odd game would be staged abroad (like the NFL and NHL did) - for instance Liverpool against Aston Villa in America or ourselves and another side in the Far East, with the great difficulty there being moving a home Premiership game from a side and how this would be impact on the fans and the revenue generated from that game.

But perhaps I discounted the greed or bare faced front of the Premier League, by not envisaging they would simply create another round of fixtures - sidestepping the fact a team would lose a home game and revenue, by caving into greed and throwing in more games to fleece people with.

I just cannot see how logically, you can take a format where each teams play one another home and away, and create a random round of games, with the top few sides conveniently being kept apart but running the real risk of two relegation threatened sides facing entirely different games - say one facing Arsenal and one facing Reading, with one facing a trip to Dubai and one although the way to Australia.

It is by no means an original initiative - and the Premier League would have cast furtive glances at the success the NFL (and to a lesser extent the NHL) had this season when Wembley hosted a regular season match-up between New York Giants and Miami Dolphins, and the reason the Premier League is now looking at this possibility is for the same reasons, put simply, money.

Much like the NFL in America, the Premier League in England has now reached saturation point. It has been a phenomenal success in terms of increased revenue from TV deals as illustrated below:

Attendances are now at an all-time high and there is simply not much left in the market to tap into in terms of new audience, which is why the clubs and league at looking further afield to try and milk the Premier League cash cow even more, and it could well be that the increased revenue from overseas markets has resulted in these TV networks demanding that games be placed in their markets to generate interest, and in turn increase their revenues.

Whilst at this stage it is only something that will be 'further examined', and against the backlash it has caused throughout the media already, I would be amazed given the riches (and still untapped markets) available to the Premier League and clubs if this move is not ratified sooner rather than later, but by doing so it will be done flying in the face of opinion of the overwhelming majority of fans throughout the country.

The Football Fans Census have a survey up here, and we have an in-depth take on this whole issue over at Football Rants.

Richards signs long term deal

Following on from last week's promise to remain with Manchester City, Micah Richards has today signed a new five and a half year deal with the Club.

The England international will remain with the Blues until at least June 2013 and speaking exclusively to mcfc.co.uk, City Chief Executive Alistair Mackintosh, declared: "It’s absolutely tremendous news for the Football Club as we announce that Micah Richards has signed a new five and a half year deal.

"It’s the longest deal, certainly in my memory, of the Club’s history. The Manager’s delighted, Dr Thaksin’s delighted and I’m personally delighted.

"We’ve worked well with Micah and his father in putting together an appropriate deal. It’s always been my goal to sign our young players up on long term contracts to provide a solid foundation, going forward, as we continue to invest in the team."

Sven-Goran Eriksson has echoed the Chief Executive's sentiments, adding: "This is fantastic news, it shows we are building for the future by securing one of our most talented players on the longest term contract."

>>mcfc.co.uk

Despite the Richards to United/Chelsea/Liverpool..... rumours, did anyone really expect any other outcome than he would sign a new deal with the club?

Bonus points to the club in getting him signed to deal of that length as well.

Increase to season ticket prices announced

Manchester City is delighted to announce a 2008/09 price freeze for our fans of the future.

The Blues have today confirmed that our innovative £95 Seasoncard for Under 16s will continue next season. More than 5,000 youngsters have taken advantage of the £5-a-game Seasoncard this campaign.

This contributed to our home game with Liverpool entering the Club record books when nearly 7,500 Under 16s attended the clash with Rafa Benitez’s men.

However after five seasons at the City of Manchester Stadium where supporters have enjoyed a price freeze, there will be for 2008/09 Adult Seasoncard holders a price increase of £2 per game for those who renew before the March 9 deadline.

>>mcfc.co.uk

Nice to see the junior prices frozen once again, but it was inevitable after this season that prices would increase somewhere along the line.

Whereas the price freezes from the past two seasons were against the backdrop of a struggling team and some poor stuff on the pitch - this season there is new ownership, a more expensive squad to maintain and by and large success and decent football on the pitch so it was a move that was expected.

The increase I guess is fairly minimal, and looking at attendances this season is not something that I would expect to put too many off from renewing.

Benjani deal concluded

Manchester City are delighted to announce the signing of Benjani Mwaruwari from Portsmouth for £3.87million.

The Zimbabwe striker joins the Blues on a two and a half year deal after passing a medical yesterday and agreeing personal terms.

Further payments could be made if the player makes up to 75 senior starts.

The Premier League and Football Association have approved the transfer, and the 12-goal hitman will go straight into Sven-Goran Eriksson’s squad, taking the number 27 shirt.

>>mcfc.co.uk

So the deal is concluded, and everyone goes home a winner. Right?

At first glance, the concensus was we pulled off a bit of a steal on Portsmouth by only paying half of the original agreed fee, before the plug was pulled on the original deal at virtually the last minute as the deadline drew near.

The sticking point was clearly the issue of the knee injury that Benjani suffered around eighteen months ago, with ourselves not being willing to pay the whole fee up front but Portsmouth I imagine needing the cash to fund the Defoe and Diarra deals they themselves were committed to.

All of which resulted in the deal finally being concluded, with £3.87 up front and the remaining £3.87 to be paid in installments after 25, 50 and 75 games - which on paper looks a far better deal from our end given the age of the player, and by signing only a two and a half year deal it may be that the 75 game payment is never triggered, leading to high praise from Alistair Mackintosh and Peter Storrie justifying the deal for Portsmouth by the fact that they would still receive the full transfer amount.

Now, obviously the deal is good one from our perspective and those of us who were on the fence with the transfer initially are probably in the 'good deal' camp now, but what I cannot understand (and nothing I have read has convinced me otherwise) is how this transfer was ultimately sanctioned by the Premier League - who Mackintosh thanked for their 'hard work and pragmatism', and has led to criticism from Paul Jewell, who was unable to replace Danny Mills following his season ending injury not long after his loan spell from ourselves began.

To me, the midnight deadline is their for a reason. There could be extenuating circumstances to sanction a transfer if it was proven that there was intent all round to conclude the deal, but from what we know, Benjani arrived late to the club which led to a last minute medical which clearly highlighted a concern over his knee.

If at that point, we wanted to re-negotiate the terms of the deal, then this is a change to the original transfer terms (and that which was previously agreed by the clubs), meaning the deal as agreed is null and void, so if a new, revised agreement is not reached by the midnight deadline then surely time is up and it cannot be concluded?

Or is that too simple a point?

Throughout the whole issue, the Premier League have remained silent, something that isn't a surprise given their previous less than tough stances on issues over the years, leading you to conclude that the clubs are very much in control of matters whereas it should surely be the Premier League who arbitrate and lead the way when it comes to decision making.

Whilst Benjani will undoubtedly add something to our squad, and is likely to go straight into the starting line up on Sunday in the derby, it doesn't seem that the deal was enitrely completed 'by the book', and I can see how the manner it was concluded has caused problems within the Premier League

Club issue Benjani denial

Manchester City have tonight corrected press speculation that Benjani Mwaruwari has completed his transfer to the club from Portsmouth.

Some news organisations have this evening claimed in unattributed stories that the Portsmouth striker has joined the Blues.

However a club spokesman said: “No deal has been completed. Manchester City remain in contact with the football authorities regarding this potential transfer, and any further developments will be announced first on mcfc.co.uk."

>>mcfc.co.uk

MCFC Stats raise a number of questions regarding the whole Benjani deal, or sorry mess as it should more accurately be referred to as four days after the transfer window deadline passed, we are seemingly no nearer to resolving the transfer.

We are led to believe that the majority of documentation was faxed across to the relevant area, but not all of it to complete the transfer. So, and what seems to have got lost in all of this, is that surely the transfer cannot be completed? There is a reason for a deadline, and once this passes, no further transfers can be completed. Or is that far too simple?

Now, reading the statement the club have put out, it does not (and something they have yet to do) state that we are being proactive in signing him or even confirm we want to sign him. Sven has come out and said he would like to sign the player but reports appear to be suggesting that we are seeking to renegotiate the terms of the deal, again something that surely contradicts the purpose of a deadline for the transfer window and sets a worrying precedent?

Despite Harry Redknapp's platitudes today, it is clear that Portsmouth would much rather rid themselves of Benjani to get the money in to fund the signing of Defoe, but whether they felt they were being railroaded or not, on the face of it it looks as though we are now playing hardball over the transfer - perhaps trying to get ourselves out of a deal that shouldn't have been agreed in the first place?

Whether or not you agree that Benjani would be a good fit for us (something I am still to be convinced of), the one person in this saga that is currently going on is left in limbo, unable to play or even train and in some respects is now without a club. Whilst both ourselves and Portsmouth are appearing to wriggle in and out of the deal, he is left, through no fault of his own, kicking his heels.

Perhaps it is a sign of the ever increasing power that clubs hold over the Premier League in the current climate in that all of the talk is coming from the clubs, whereas surely it is upto the Premier League to hand down jurisdiction on this issue - yet (unsuprisingly given their track record over arbitration matters) they of course remain silent and unwilling to act within their power.

Whatever the final outcome over the Benjani transfer (and I believe the transfer will be sanctioned) someone involved in this need to stand up and make a decision. Soon.

City 1 Arsenal 3

One thing you cannot afford to do against teams with the quality and potential to hurt you as much Arsenal, is to be careless in possession and make basic mistakes.

And whilst we came back into the game, the way we started the game and that we allowed Arsenal to jump out to a 2-0 lead so early made the game all but over.

Whilst we had a great chance early from Elano's delightful through ball which just evaded Stephen Ireland offside beating run, Arsenal were serving notice through some neat one touch passing, and so it was that Arsenal went ahead early through Adebayor although we did contribute to our downfall as Petrov was too slow in tracking back, Ball was beaten far too easily down the flank and to compound matters Adebayor was given far too much room in the penalty area and hit past Hart to make it 1-0.

Petrov was a good attacking option but again on a couple of occasions his driving runs stalled because of a lack of support in the attacking zones, and on the quarter mark of the game it was 2-0. Arsenal were afforded far too much space down the left hand side and Clichy swung a cross in that Adebayor headed down to set Eduardo who (although appearing slightly offside) executed the finish on the turn with a perfect technique.

In his post match interview, Sven once again lamented the slow start we made and that we had conceded 'soft goals' to put Arsenal firmly in the driving seat, and it is true that we are not a side generally built to come from behind so do put ourselves in a hole by going behind so early a game.

One thing which was noticeable throughout the game was the way that Dunne and Richards lost out in so many headed challenges - something which rarely (if ever) has occurred, and praise must go to Emmanuel Adebayor who looks a real player and is flourishing with the added responsibility since Thierry Henry's departure.

To credit us, we came back well into the game and got back into the contest, courtesy of some slack play from Gael Clichy, who allowed himself to be robbed by Corluka who showed good composure to find an advancing Gelson, who hit home well to reduce the arrears.

We were better in the second half and in the game far me, but I did feel that Arsenal controlled it for the most part and to me look as though they have a battling quality about them and will definitely be there or thereabouts come the end of the season.

Whilst there can be positives to take from the game, one thing which was apparant was that despite the great strides we have made this season, we are some way off the top three in terms of real quality and the ability to put together consistent displays and runs to accumulate the necessary points to challenge Arsenal, United and Chelsea.

One thing which has to be appreciated though is the age of the squad, and we really must be one of the youngest squads in the Premier League, and whilst the play has at times been fantastic this season, it is only realistic to expect some growing pains along the way. Don't forget also, in some ways Sven is sill getting to know the squad and player and this season in many respects is one of transition and whilst there are one or two grumblings from the terraces at present, it is easy to forget just how far we have progressed over the last six months, and the potential that this squad has is something to savour as we look ahead.

Benjani deal to be resurrected?

Having waited up until after midnight on Thursday to try and ensure I got confirmation of all of our transfer news before finishing posting up, I decide to call it a day shortly after, safely assuming that the Benjani deal was not yet announced but would be confirmed shortly and I'd pick the details up in the morning.

The morning brought news only that the transfer had not gone through, with time simply running out before we could get the deal completed, with only a brief statement from the club announcing this.

Having signed Jermaine Defoe from Tottenham - presumably financed in part by the Benjani move, Portsmouth were indeed disgruntled, stating they had confirmation from ourselves that the papers were being faxed off only to then be informed that not all the relevant documentation had been received.

There were then noises from Portsmouth that they had been in contact with league officials and were hopefully of still getting the deal through, but perhaps tellingly at this stage there was no official word from ourselves backing this up or confirming we were hopeful of completing the transfer - only reports coming out of planes being missed, late arrivals and even of failed medicals. There were also whispers that the elements of the transfer fee may have been channeled to parties that the club were not entirely happy with, and it could be that there is a definite divide within the hierarchy of the club with certain factions not happy to sanction the deal.

Being a cynic at times, I was of the opinion yesterday that the club were not too displeased that the transfer had not gone through and may have even played a part in pulling the plug in some way, and personally I was not overly concerned the deal did not go through.

I was not overly convinced that signing Benjani was a great move. Admittedly, he has posted a decent tally this season and does look a far better player than the one who struggled terribly when he first arrived in the Premier League. But, for me, he is too hit and miss as a player to be worth the £7 - 9 million that was touted as the fee and whilst Sven no doubt worked hard to bring in players, I do think better players will be available in the summer.

Today though. both Sven and Benjani have spoken of their desire to get the deal concluded, with Sven saying "I want him here and he wants to come, I strongly believe that, I can't speak to him directly until he is a Manchester City player but that is what I believe. A lot has been said and written by people who don't know the facts. Something will happen on Monday or Tuesday."

There has been a precedent of course with the William Gallas-Ashley Cole transfer being completed after the midnight deadline, and if the Premier League are satisfied there was intent to complete the deal it is quite possible they may sanction the transfer and Benjani will join the club after all.

Following the Arsenal game yesterday, it is increasingly clear with each passing match that we do need something different up front as we are really struggling at the moment and it seriously threatening to derail the season at quite a crucial stage.

Benjani may not be the preferred option to many, but if the deal does go through he will at least offer something different to what is available at the moment and is a more potent weapon than what we have. If the deal doesn't go through, Sven will need to come up with a different approach than what is being tried at the moment.

Arsenal prediction

England defender Micah Richards could return from a niggling knee problem to Manchester City's side to face Arsenal.

New signing Felipe Caicedo is not expected to arrive until next week, so Darius Vassell and Daniel Sturridge should continue up front.

Arsenal will be without winger Tomas Rosicky because of a hamstring injury while striker Robin van Persie (thigh) is back in training but not match fit.

Denilson (hamstring) and Johan Djourou (groin) are also out for the Gunners.

---

Manchester City (from): Hart, Jihai, Onuoha, Dunne, Richards, Corluka, Ball, Hamann, Fernandes, Petrov, Vassell, Elano, Mpenza, Ireland, Sturridge, Geovanni, Schmeichel, Garrido, Etuhu.

Arsenal (from): Almunia, Sagna, Gallas, Senderos, Clichy, Diaby, Fabregas, Flamini, Hleb, Adebayor, Eduardo, Lehmann, J Hoyte, Gilberto, Bendtner, Walcott, Traore, Lansbury.

>>BBC Sport.

The start of a tricky run of three games that could shape the final stretch of the season begins tomorrow with a visit from Arsenal, who will be (briefly at least) looking to go back to the top of the Premier League.

Arsenal have suprised a few people this season, as they were not widely expected to perhaps be keeping pace with both United and Chelsea this year given their comparative inexperience, but all credit to them as they have been a model of consistency this season and even without some key players will be a huge threat.

They have rebounded from the Carling Cup defeat to Tottenham by swiping aside Newcastle in back to back victories and do look to have a real desire about them this season as they seek to reclaim a Premier League crown which has headed to Old Trafford or Stamford Bridge in recent times.

We are of course defending our unbeaten streak at home and we have been tight defensively for the most part at home, something which will be tested today. Creativity has been a problem for ourselves of late, but if Elano is recalled (as I expect) he may find less attention than he has done against some lesser sides so he will need to step up and be a real factor.

If we take a point from this game I'm sure most people will walk out of the ground pleased enough, but Arsenal know the pressure is on to take all three points and I have a feeling the unbeaten run will come to an end, by a scoreline of 2-1.

Inter-toto a possibility

With the race for European places hotting up now that clubs have had their final chance to add to their squads, Sven-Goran Eriksson has refused to close the door on any option.

City famously qualified for Europe via the Fair Play route to play in the 2003/04 UEFA Cup and now it’s the Intertoto Cup that the Blues are covering themselves for if they fail to qualify through their Premier League position.

Speaking about the Club's application, Sven told us: “It’s a possibility. The deadline was last Friday for the Intertoto Cup and we are in that.

>>mcfc.co.uk.

Whilst the season so far has seen hot on the trail of both a Champions Leage and a UEFA Cup spot, the 'mini-slump' of late has seen us slip to the fringes of the European positions and other sides around us are certainly maintaining their form, making it a difficult task ahead to guarantee European football next season via a league finish.

This may well have prompted the move by Sven and the club to register their interest in the competition, and whilst I have been against a move such as this on previous occasions both here and here, I do think the circumstances are different on this occasion.

The competition now has a new format, whereby clubs from the bigger European nations are virtually guaranteed a passage to round 3 - which means they will face just one two-legged match-up to get into the UEFA Cup, rather than the convaluted passage of previous seasons.

Also, we are now in a far healthier and stronger position as a club both on and off the pitch, and with the additions made this season we are well placed to compete in European competition, and coupled with the signings likely to arrive in the summer we should be confident of progressing through if this is the route we have to take.

Whilst it is a useful safety net option, obviously sights are still well and truly focused on reaching European competition next season by the more orthodox route but I think this is a pragmatic move, and a good insurance policy if required.

Deadline day news

Manchester City goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson has turned down a move to Galatasaray, having previously expressed a wish to join the Turkish club.

Isaksson had been hoping to leave City before the close of the transfer window to safeguard his position in Sweden's Euro 2008 squad.

He has lost out to Joe Hart to be City's No.1 and admitted a desire to finalise a switch to Galatasaray in order to play regularly.

But City's first-team coach Tord Grip has confirmed that Isaksson does not want to join Galatasaray on loan.

"Andreas is probably staying here, it now looks that way," City's Tord Grip told Sportbladet.

"I am at the training complex and he is here today.

"He is able to go on loan to Galatasaray and get a game.

"But that is what he doesn't want to do and we cannot do much more."

>>Sky Sports.

Ched Evans will stay on loan at Norwich until the end of the season, after the club reached an agreement with Manchester City.

His 'emergency loan' spell was due to end on February 26, with Man City able to recall him from Wednesday, but now

Evans, 19, has scored four goals in 12 apperances for Norwich, his first being within just two minutes of his City debut; his most recent the winner against Southampton on Tuesday night.

>>Norwich Evening News.

OUSMANE Dabo has left City to rejoin Lazio - where he will link up with Rolando Bianchi.

The French midfielder failed to make a Premier League appearance under Sven-Goran Eriksson, getting his only game for the Swede in the Carling Cup win at Bristol City in August.

Dabo struggled to make an impact after Stuart Pearce brought him to Eastlands from Lazio in June 2006.

And the 30-year-old had become increasingly frustrated by his lack of opportunities under Eriksson's management.

"I'm the only player in the first-team squad who hasn't been given a chance this season," he said earlier this month.

"After a while, it gets so ridiculous that it becomes laughable."

>>MEN.

Of the three moves above, the only one that surprised me was the Isaksson one given that it was widely believed both the player and club were happy for him to move during the window after Joe Hart was established as the number 1, but it may well have been that the Swede was after a permanent move rather than just a short term deal.

The Evans move is a sensible one given the return to fitness of Danny Sturridge along with the the strides that Valeri Bojinov has made to get back on the pitch and will allow him to gain some decent experience at a place where he seemingly enjoys playing.

With just over four hours to go before the window shuts, all eyes will now be on the two moves (Benjani and Caciedo) which have been heavily rumoured for the past couple of days but have (as yet) still to be announced - although I would be surprised if they weren't completed before the deadline passes.

I'll update this post through the evening as soon as any deals are confirmed, and if anyone hears of any deals (rumoured or confirmed), feel free to post up.

UPDATE:

West Brom have completed the permanent signing of Ishmael Miller from Manchester City for an undisclosed fee.

The Championship leaders have exercised the option to buy the striker before January 31 - a clause Albion inserted in the deal which brought Miller to The Hawthorns on a season-long loan in August.

Miller, 20, has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract, which includes an extra year's option in the club's favour.

>> Sporting Life.

No news of the fee involved, but I confess I wasn't aware of the clause inserted into the loan contract. A good move for Miller this, moving to a side who look a good bet for promotion to the Premier League. Kudos to Sven as well for getting him under a new contract at the beginning of the season which would have increased his value.

Although he has performed well for West Brom this season, I don't (as I've written before) believe he quite has what it takes to make it at the club and lacks the technical ability to quite make it at the highest level.

Whilst no official confirmation from the club has yet, FC Basel's website is reporting the transfer of Caceido has been completed. Worth checking out for the translation.

UPDATE:

Inter have confirmed that Roberto Mancini’s son Filippo will be spending the rest of the season on loan at Manchester City.

The player has been on trial with the Eastlands based club since last week and he has impressed Sven Goran Eriksson.

The 17 year old made his debut for the Nerazzurri in the Coppa Italia just days before arriving in Manchester.

A statement on the club’s official website reads:

“Filippo Mancini will be playing in England for Manchester City.”

>>Setanta Sports.

UPDATE:

The MEN is reporting that Paul Dickov has joined Blackpool on loan until the end of the season, and still suggests the Benjani move could be completed - with Jermain Defoe set for a move to Portsmouth as his replacement.

UPDATE:

The transfer window is now closed, and no confirmation of the Benjani (or Defoe) moves. That's not to say it won't happen though as an announcement could still come through that the deals were completed by midnight.

If the Benjani move has not gone through, it will be interesting to see the reason why, but we'll know one way or the other tomorrow morning.

UPDATE:

Manchester City have confirmed that the proposed transfer of Portsmouth striker Benjani to the Blues was unsuccessful.

City spokesman Paul Tyrrell said, "Due to the late arrival of the player in Manchester we were unable to complete the transfer."

>>mcfc.co.uk

A very short statement from the club, and one that strikes as a bit of an administrative mess more than anything. Perhaps more will come out later today as to exactly why the deal didn't get done but given I wasn't entirely convinced of the merits of signing him it may well be a blessing, but I'll post something more in depth regarding the transfer deadline hopefully later today.