Agents fees announced

From the official site:

In line with the Football Association Agent's Regulations, Manchester City Football Club hereby disclose details of agents' fees paid over the past year as being £12,875,283.

The figures, being released by all Premier League clubs today, have been verified and reconciled by The Football Association, and include fees paid to agents for incoming as well as outgoing transfers, the renegotiation of existing player registrations as well as fees paid to agents during the stated period, but which relate to transactions predating it.

The amount paid covers the period 1 October 2008-30 September 2009 and the making public of the figures is a requirement of the Premier League, which all clubs have to adhere to.

The Premier League confirmed that the fees paid cover all of the following:

• Fees paid to agents by Clubs in respect of acquiring and/or renegotiating Player Registrations.
• Fees paid to agents by Clubs on behalf of players in respect of acquiring and/or renegotiating Player Registrations.
• Fees paid to agents during the defined period relating to previous transaction costs (i.e. Player Registrations prior to 1st October 2008) that have been amortised over the length of a Player Contract.
• Fees paid to agents by Clubs to facilitate the outward transfer of Player Registrations.
  

The figures relate to all permanent and loan signings, first contracts and re-negotiations/extension of existing contracts.

It is quite a staggering amount to be paid out, but not surprising considering the level of transfer fees that we have paid out this summer, the January transfer window and even back to the summer of 2008 (when Sven-Goran Eriksson arrived) as the club confirmed that payments included relate to a total of 35 transactions, some of which predated the past year.

The overall figures show that our total of £12,875,283 is 18% of the total amount of £70,692,513 paid out by Premier League clubs. No surprise then that we comfortably top the table, paying out around £3million more than Chelsea (in second place) and 50% more than Liverpool in third place:

Arsenal	£4,760,241
Aston Villa	£1,708,374
Birmingham City	£974,982
Blackburn Rovers	£1,610,885
Bolton Wanderers	£3,166,611
Burnley	£468,398
Chelsea	£9,562,223
Everton	£2,008,407
Fulham	£1,469,258
Hull City	£1,599,188
Liverpool	£6,657,305
Manchester City	£12,874,283
Manchester United	£1,517,393
Portsmouth	£3,184,725
Stoke City	£716,042
Sunderland	£2,007,040
Tottenham Hotspur	£6,066,935
Wigan Athletic	£5,527,548
West Ham United	£3,576,972
Wolverhampton Wanderers	£1,235,703
Total (across 803 transactions)	£70,692,513

The club have spoken of the past transfer window comprising what in effect was a number of transfer windows such was the opportunity to land the players we did, and of course bringing in the amount of players we have in such a short time was always going to affect the amount paid to agents as a result:

“As has previously been stated by our Chief Executive Garry Cook, the level of player acquisition over the past year has been unprecedented as we have sought to rebuild our playing squad.

Squad building at this level and within such a short time frame is unlikely to be repeated. The figure in question relates to payments made for 35 players, many of whom predate this time period. The fees represent an average of £360,000 per transaction, and the total amount falls well within our annual budget and operating plan as approved by our board.”

It may 'only' represent £360,000 per transaction, but that is a nice spin put on matters given the wide scope of business it represents. If you look at the individual transfers we have completed - namely Robinho, Adebayor, Lescott and particularly Tevez, we undoubtedly paid out some serious money to facilitate these moves, although there are no figures released that relate to individual transfers which is a pity as we could perhaps get a clearer, more rounded view of exactly what was paid out, and maybe more importantly, to whom.

Richards linked with United

And if City decide to offload the versatile defender, then United are ready to bid for him.

Old Trafford boss Sir Alex Ferguson is a huge admirer of Richards and tried to sign him when he first broke on the scene.

Ferguson is considering his options at right-back with growing concerns about Gary Neville’s fitness and Rafael Da Silva’s ability.

Ferguson believes his strict man-management could control Richards and United are hoping to do business if City will sell to them.

>>mirror.co.uk

So this comes days after Hughes publicly stated Richards was not for sale; and then recalls him to the side.

Even if he was to give up on him and ship him out of the club, would a move to United really be sanctioned?

No prizes for the answer.

de Jong - 'It's on us'

"I would love to give you a reason - if I could give you the reason, we would win all of our games," he said. Maybe there is a lack of confidence in some situations. We try to keep our confidence high, especially when we play at home. We are frustrated but have to continue to build for the future, and these kinds of games are always hard to play.

"There are a few factors, but we have to give more in every line of our game - midfield, defence and attack. It's a team thing and we have to work harder and harder to get where we want to be.

"It was disappointing to play at home again and to concede in the 80th minute. It was also the seventh draw, so we don't get any closer to the top four. Now it is up to us to take it on the chin and come out fighting on Wednesday."

>>Nigel de Jong.

FA Cup 3rd round draw

CITY will be away to Middlesbrough in the third round of the FA Cup, sponsored by E.ON, in January.

The tie will take place on the first weekend of the New Year with a date and kick-off to be announced on mcfc.co.uk as soon as television schedules have been confirmed. Ticket details will then be published.

>>mcfc.co.uk

An away tie against a bogey side is not the ideal draw you want.

That said, it is one that we should progress from.

Full draw.

Hull reaction

For me, Norfstander has rapidly become one of the 'must read' City opinions in the blogosphere and he has an excellent post up at the moment as a reaction to some of the opinion and comment that eminated in the wake of yesterday's draw.

The morning's press line is very much of the Hughes is on borrowed time, with the 'Hughes out' commentators very much in force over at the MEN, but he makes a very good point with regards to the fact that it isn't simply a case of blindly supporting Hughes but looking at the bigger (and more long term) future:

What they don't seem to understand is that there are huge expanses of middle ground. Those of us pointing out that even the suggestion of a change at the top is reactionary and daft see Hughes' flaws, that's always been the case, and we all agree that what we're getting at the minute isn't good enough. None of us blindly defend the manager for the sake of doing so, we've just seen where these sort of decisions have gotten us in the past, and believe in giving whoever is in charge a fair crack of the whip.

Yesterday's game marked the third point mark of the season. Of course, seven draws on the spin is frustrating - moreso than disappointing I would argue. Yet we still sit in sixth place, and this season has seen our most consistent set of league placings for many years. There is also the very real possibility of progressing through to the semi-final of the Carling Cup this coming week.

The money that has been pumped into the club has of course raised expectation levels, but without an acceptance that progression does take time. Overnight success is rarely attained, and if it is, it is often built on no foundation or basis.

Hughes and ADUG have been in tandem at the club for some sixteen months now. The progress that has been made both on and off the pitch is evident all around the club. Everything we have heard from the ownership suggests they have an aim of where they want the club to be, and equally have a structured plan in place for how this is to be achieved.

I would suggest that in terms of progression on the pitch during 2009/10, we are at least hitting the expectations laid out at the start of the season. If anything, the early season results raised hopes unrealistically.

Short term solutions are very easy to identify with, the long term approach less so but I think it is clear that we are on the right path.

The frustration of recent weeks should not deviate from that.

Hughes reaction to the Hull point

"Of course it is a disappointing run we're on, because we're failing to see out victories when we have the lead.

We're trying to get something started here but at times we look exactly what we are, a side that has been thrown together very quickly. That means we'll have bad days among the good ones.

"But we're still very much in touch with the teams at the top of the league. We've just got to keep going and the wins will come."

City 1 Hull 1

The danger at holding a 1-0 and not killing a side off when you are in the ascendancy is that you run the risk of allowing your opponents back into the game.

Today was a perfect example of this and what should have been a return to winning ways to start an important week results in the sense of frustration continuing.

It shouldn't have come to this of course given our dominance over the first hour of the game, in particular the first half which was our best for some time. It was reward perhaps for a more attacking approach adopted by Mark Hughes; Zabaleta, Barry and Bellamy made way for Richards, Tevez and the returning Robinho.

It was Robinho who was largely instrumental in our first half performance. The side showed fantastic movement and interchange play with Robinho, Ireland and Tevez all moving around to great effectiveness. We attacked with pace and purpose, creating ourselves some great positions yet just lacked a cutting edge.

Having got the lead on the stroke of half-time however, this should have been the spur to kick on and put the game beyond reach early in the second half. Not to be however, and despite their frailties, if a side has the likes of Bullard and Hunt they are likely to be able to create at least one opportunity.

The penalty may well have been questionable, but by no means could you argue it wasn't one. We were then left with little time to try and re-group and restore our lead. It was not to be.

Questions I'm sure will be asked of the defence once again - particularly in terms of their concentration, but this was one of our better performances at the back.

Far more worrying is the fact that despite the quality in the attacking positions we are showing either the ruthlesness or clinical nature needed to be a top four side. Seven successive draws bears this out, and we have thrown away leads in our last three home games against Fulham, Burnley and now Hull - all games we should be winning of course.

This aspect, as much as anything is the one we need to rectify to get the season back on course.

Hughes - 'Richards going nowhere'

"Micah's not going anywhere in January or at any time. He's a big part of what we're trying to do here."

"He's still a very young man, and his football experience is great for someone of so few years. People sometimes don't give him enough credit for what he's achieved up to this point in his career.

"But he knows he's nowhere near the finished article. There's a huge amount of potential still to be tapped in to. It's down to me and it's down to my coaches to bring that out of him."

"His physical attributes lend themselves to so many positions on the field of play. We have to make sure that he's training and playing correctly and learning every day. Without a shadow of a doubt, he'll grow and develop as an outstanding player."

>>Mark Hughes on Micah Richards.

Hull preview

Back on home turf, and welcoming the side who went into meltdown following (or during if you are Phil Brown) a heavy defeat in the corresponding fixture in 2008/09.

A first half shellacking resulted in the bizarre sight of Brown conducting his team talk on the pitch, a move that endeared him to virtually no-one in the game and hardly resulted in galvanising his side into action either in that fixture or the remainder of the season as they dropped like a stone down the table, barely surviving the drop back to the Championship in the process.

The draw last weekend at Anfield was a classic case of the 'half full, half empty' argument. Many view it is a good point won at a difficult place to visit. Equally, however, many view it as two points dropped from a position of strength (taking the lead with fifteen or so minutes remaining).

This has of course led to grumblings in the press about a disappointing lack of ambition being shown; that top four ambitions are some way off for the rich pretenders.

Perhaps there is a nerviness in our play at the moment though. This could make matters difficult tomorrow. Very much like the last visitors to Eastlands - Burnley - Hull travel with a woeful away record. One point gained, four goals scored and seventeen conceded in their five away matches.

This does not tell the full story though. Since new Chairman Adam Pearson arrived with a less than confidence boosting endorsement of Phil Brown, Hull have taken seven points from nine (including a win in midweek against Everton), showing a hitherto unseen spirit. This of course coincided with the return of the infectious Jimmy Bullard, a talented and energetic spark who spent the best part of 2009 sidelined through injury.

We should win the game of course. Our attacking potency being too much for a porous defence but given our propensity for losing leads of late, even a winning position will likely not quieten nerves in the stands.

The significance of the result is also magnified given the weeks other fixtures - a midweek Carling Cup quarter-final against Arsenal and then followed by a visit from Chelsea, who are looking every bit the title favourites.

I wouldn't suggest confidence in the side has been dented by recent results, but there is no doubt the restoring powers a good win can provide. Hull have the capabilities to cause problems for us but I would be surprised if we didn't run out comfortable victors.

Still no clean sheet though in a 3-1 win.

Toure and Adebayor to miss significant time in January?

According to the Mail today, we could be set to lose the services of Emmanuel Adebayor and Kolo Toure for upto 10 matches in January:

But they have learned that star players such as Emmanuel Adebayor and Kolo Toure at Manchester City, Chelsea duo Didier Drogba and Michael Essien, plus Alex Song and Emmanuel Eboue, of Arsenal, could be made to leave England as early as December 26 – even though the tournament does not start until January 10.

FIFA rules state clearly that countries can ask players to report a full two weeks ahead of a major tournament, meaning that key English-based players could join training camps as early as December 27.

No official word on their departure date as yet, and I'm certain that the club will negotiate to ensure both players are available for the two league fixtures before Christmas and New Year.

If so, it will only be four league games the duo miss (perhaps less if their countries are eliminated at an early stage - more likely for Adebayor than Toure), but there will be the added possibility of them missing a potential Carling Cup semi-final (both legs) and the FA Cup 3rd and 4th round ties.

Of course, this shouldn't be a surprise to the management and you do hope that the usual disrespectful moaning from certain managers about the tournament isn't something we are going to hear again throughout January.

Richards linked with Tottenham

An interesting piece in yesterdays Mail, suggesting Tottenham could be set to move for Micah Richards:

Spurs boss Harry Redknapp hopes the chance to resurrect his England career will convince Richards to switch to White Hart Lane.

Tottenham had a £5million bid turned down for Richards three years ago and the player went on to sign a lucrative four-year deal at City.

He became England's youngest-ever defender when he played against Holland at the age of 18 years and 143 days in 2006. But he has not featured under England boss Fabio Capello and is out of favour at City.

He did not even make the bench for last weekend's 2-2 draw against Liverpool and City boss Mark Hughes is expected to let the youngster go in the January transfer window.

I always find it difficult to know what to make of rumours that appear in the press, primarily because I had a short spell writing the transfer rumour page for a news agency. The brief was very much 'avoid it being obvious, but not too ridiculous.'

This one I suppose fits the bill perfectly. Tottenham, a club perenially linked with signing players and Richards, dropped from the side and now out of he squad completely. Rumours also persist of Richard's supposed poor attitude and the coaching staffs displeasure with him.

Is Hughes ready to give up on him though? It won't be the first time Hughes has made a big call in terms of ridding the squad of a player that doesn't fit in with his ethos. Despite his struggles, I don't think there would be any shortage of interest for Richards from sides in the top half of the Premier League.

I'm yet to be wholly convinced Richards is on the way out though. I may be wrong, but it would still be a huge call to give up on a player who does potentially have so much upside.

Club announce new sponsor

From the official site:

Previously known as MAN, Ferrostaal become the Club’s fourth partner and join with Etihad Airways, Umbro and Etisalat, the latter is a deal which was announced during the Club’s recent trip to Abu Dhabi.

Ferrostaal, a global provider of industrial services in plant construction and engineering, is based in Essen, Germany and employs around 4,440 people in more than 60 different countries. In 2008, its annual turnover amounted to 1.6 billion Euros.

As a result of the deal, which will run until the end of the 2011/12 Premier League season, Ferrostaal’s company logo will appear on perimeter boards at every home league and domestic cup game.

In addition, a pre-season friendly will be played against a German Bundesliga club in the region, during the closed season of each of the three years of the deal.

Benjani linked with a move away

Skysports.com understands Bolton are lining up a January raid on Manchester City for striker Benjani Mwaruwari.

Bolton are desperate to add to their attacking options when the transfer window reopens in the New Year and have earmarked Benjani as the player to fire them to safety.

The Zimbabwe international has a wealth of Premier League experience having moved to England in 2006 when he joined Portsmouth from Auxerre.

Benjani has fallen down Mark Hughes' pecking order following an influx of new strikers over the summer.

>>skysports.com

It isn't a huge stretch of the imagination to think that Benjani's last days at the club are ticking by. He is way down the list of options for Mark Hughes, and with some highly promising Academy players on the rise he could slip even further down the pecking order.

It does seem though that money could well be an issue with regards his departure - no doubt he is on a decent contract that not all suitors may be willing to pay.

A huge surprise though if he is at the club post-January, although it may well be a loan deal if a permanent move cannot be agreed.

Kompany keen to return

"I finally got 90 minutes to run around and make some tackles and I really enjoyed it. I made a lot of good, strong challenges, which is a big part of my game.

"I'm looking forward to pushing for a first-team starting place. The competition doesn't bother me. I'm just as much competition to the others. I hope to be in there in the near future. I'm not there yet but I'm on my way. I'm starting to feel like I did when I first joined City last season. I feel like I can maybe reach even better levels than I did then.

"I'm happy, but I'm realistic as well. I know I need to be able to perform well consistently."

>>mcfc.co.uk

Kompany certainly finds himself in a tough spot at the moment.

Outstanding last season, his consistency and level of play stood out amist the sea change that Hughes was trying to introduce at the club. So much so that he was thought of as a front runner to take the captains armband.

Injury (ironically atrributed to playing through injury last season) curtailed his pre-season and it is only recently that he has returned to full fitness and ready for selection.

It is difficult to see where he will fit in though. In midfield, Nigel de Jong has been excellent in the holding role this season and arguably our most consistent performer so far. I don't see Hughes opting for two defensive-minded midfielders, preferring to us Gareth Barry in a more withdrawn role if required so unless de Jong suffers injury or a sudden loss of form he will struggle to regain his place there.

It is thought that the centre of defence is Kompany's best position, and this is an area often discussed in recent times. Kompany did fill in there at Birmingham and looked very assured. However, Kolo Toure has done little to warrant the axe and Joleon Lescott - for all his early stuggles - has looked more assured of late. Hughes will also be reluctant to jettison a player he invested so much time and money into acquiring.

Interesting also to note that last weekend at Anfield it was Nedum Onouha, and not Kompany who was brought onto to replace the injured Toure. This may have been because a more like for like move was sought but served to reinforce the difficulty that Kompany has in retaining the starting place he was so unlucky to lose.

Robinho ready

CITY are set to unleash Robinho on struggling Hull this weekend.And the man who has had the closest view of the Brazilian star's fight for fitness believes he is ready to begin weaving his magic once again.First team coach Eddie Niedzwiecki has supervised the full training sessions this week in which Robinho - who hasn't played for the Blues since August 27 - has been busy proving he is ready to rumble.

"Robi is looking really good. We were pleased, after all the speculation when he went with Brazil, that he didn't play for them, because he wasn't ready," he said."He had good training and good treatment whilst with them and has come back to us looking sharper by the day."Things are looking very promising for him in terms of the weekend, and he should be up for selection."

>>MEN.

It is interesting to see the change in approach regarding Robinho, with a frustrating six draws in succession leading to the view that we are lacking a little guile. The talk now is that his return to the side can't come soon enough - a far cry of course from earlier in the season when most relegated him to the third in line behind Bellamy and Petrov, and wondered how he would even get near to the starting line up.

I don't think he starts against Hull, but if we are struggling with half an hour or so remaining, expect the clamour for his introduction to begin.

di Maria linked again

Seemingly a story that isn't going away anytime soon, and The Telegraph suggests we are clear favourites to land the Benfica winger:

It is understood that Manchester City are keen to complete a deal next summer, when it is likely that they will move on Robinho, probably to Barcelona, but Di María's club, Benfica, are hoping to complete the transfer in January.

They have approached Atlético Madrid in a bid to sign Portuguese international Simao Sabrosa and want to try to push that deal through as soon as possible and before a lower buy-out clause in Di María's contract kicks in at the end of this season.

It is interesting that the suggestion is Benfica are trying to push through a deal in January to squeeze out the maximum fee they can.

I know that last January we paid a higher fee for Nigel de Jong than we perhaps might have done but however much potential he has, £36 million is a lot of money to pay. Unlike de Jong, di Maria is also unlikely to instantly become a key part of the side, meaning the necessity to overpay is not there.

More likely we go back for him in the summer, perhaps - as the article suggests - Robinho's more long term future may be a lot clearer.

Petrov still sidelined

Newly crowned player of the month (still a game left though until December though) Martin Petrov has been ruled out of the weekends game with Hull:

"I am feeling better but I don't think I'll make it this week," he said on the club's official website."I am hoping that I can start training again at the start of next week."

Poor timing of course given his form of late and having only recently re-asserted himself back into the starting line-up.

Even moreso you imagine given the imminent return of Robinho.

QPR youngster linked again

Following on from this story a couple of weeks or so ago is a piece today from imscouting.com suggesting a move could now be imminent for Raheem Sterling:

Manchester City look set to sign QPR wonderkid Raheem Sterling last night after the teenager informed the London club of his desire to leave.

The 14-year-old recently impressed on his debut for England's Under-16 side and has reportedly been pursued by Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City for several months.Sterling last week told London's Kilburn Times "I just want to stay at QPR for the moment and go from there."

Yet Sterling now appears to be keen to move and Rangers are prepared to listen to offers for the young prospect.

Kompany and Johnson feature for reserves

Vincent Kompany and Michael Johnson both came through a full 90 minute work-out for the reserves, but could not help to force a win away to Blackburn.

Glyn Hodges' side battled away to a 1-1 draw on a wet and blustery night on a heavy pitch at Leigh Sports Village, City's goal coming from James Poole on the stroke of half-time.

Benjani also completed the game, in which Kompany partnered Johnson in an experienced midfield combination. The hosts went ahead through Gavin Gunning, who headed home powerfully at a corner on 18 minutes. Rovers had the better of the first half, but City had momentum going into the break when James Poole, a thorn in Rovers' side all night, swept a Benjani cross home just before the whistle.

>>mcfc.co.uk

Bojinov keen on Italy stay

Out of sight, out of mind he may be but Valeri Bojinov is impressing nonetheless during the 2009/10 season.

Faced with the prospect of little playing time after almost two full seasons blighted by injury, he joined Parma - who returned to Serie A at the first attempt - on the eve of the season and has played a full part in their surprising run that sees them currently in third place in the table.

Obviously revelling in being back on the field and it has again been reported that his preference is to remain in Italy beyond this season:

"Parma was my opportunity, I thank the chairman (Tommaso) Ghirardi, sporting director (Pietro) Leonardi, (Francesco) Guidolin and also (Cesare) Prandelli, who put in a good word for me."

Like many, I'd hoped that Bojinov's departure was not a permanent one, and that a season of regular football under his built could see him return to us next summer to re-start his City career. However, it is apparant that his time with us is all but over and the expectation is that his current move will ultimately be made permanent.

Tevez super-sub?

Henry Winter today suggests that - given his cameo on Saturday - that the most effective use of Carlos Tevez may be as an impact player late in the game, one who can take advantage of tired legs with his energy and sparkiness:

After the Argentine attacker delivered a feisty second-half cameo to revitalise Manchester City, it was impossible not to conclude that Mark Hughes’s use of Tévez would influence whether City replaced Liverpool as one of England’s elite four.

Like Sir Alex Ferguson before him, Hughes may be reaching the realisation that Tévez is best deployed only when running against tiring legs, when the game opens up. All hungry heart and whirring limbs, Tévez acts like a shot of adrenalin on a team, particularly one in search of inspiration.

I think this is a little too simplistic an argument though. Tevez's impact on Saturday was undeniable of course, and his introduction coincided with our best spell of the game and one that saw us take the lead after going behind.

Was this because his 'hungry heart and whirring limbs' galvanised the team into action, waking them from their slumber? To suggest this was a one man show is doing a disservice to Stephen Ireland and Shaun Wright-Phillips in particular, both instrumental in our comeback as much as the introduction of Tevez into the fray.

Given the manner of Tevez, he is a very noticeable figure on the pitch - moving around the front line, dropping deep and always seeking the ball. Naturally this will make his impact coming off the bench that bit more noticeable, yet this is not reason enough to pigeon hole him as a 'super-sub'. There are plenty other options equally capable of coming off the bench and changing the course of a game.

The qualities of Tevez are evident to see and apply whether they are utilised from the first whistle or after seventy minutes; to suggest the very same qualities limit his usefulness to being a role player is somewhat wide of the mark.

Not ambition enough?

Following yesterday's draw at Anfield in a game widely labelled as laying a marker down for fourth place, it is ourselves rather than Liverpool who have attracted the most criticism.

Or more accurately, Mark Hughes has.

Given the absences from Liverpool's side in addition to their recent travails on the pitch, there appears to be opinion that the approach to the game was not sufficiently attacking enough for a side with lofty ambitions.

Andy Hunter at guardian.co.uk:

Manchester City should seek a placenta cure for their lack of ambition when they next visit the besieged Belgrade home of Mariana Kovacevic. A point at Anfield is no disgrace, as Mark Hughes mentioned once or twice afterwards, and but for the deflection that aided Liverpool's equaliser, his game-plan could have yielded a victory of renewed intent. Even with mitigation, however, this was a glorious opportunity wasted by City.

And Phil McNulty in his piece for BBC sport:

The expensive symbols of their desire to dismantle the Premier League's established order were dotted all over Anfield in a meeting with Liverpool that was custom made to measure the scale of Manchester City's threat this season.

Instead, confronted by a Liverpool team short on confidence and shorn of key personnel before and during the game, City's negativity betrayed a lack of conviction that raises serious questions about their ability to muscle in on the top four.

Of course yesterday was a(nother) frustrating afternoon, an impressive second half performance not rewarded with the three points due to a(nother) defensive lapse.

In isolation though, a point at Anfield is a good return. The difficulty of course is that the draw was our sixth in succession, building up the level of frustration as opportunities to cement a place in the top four slip by.

We were too cautious in the first-half, but this was hardly helped by the disjointed start to the game with the stream of injuries. Whilst the introduction of Tevez was not made until we went a goal down, most sides would have been happy at 1-0 for far longer than the hour mark.

And it is easy to forget that the tactical and personnel change that was made resulted in us taking a 2-1 lead, only for it to be thrown away with some poor defending - not as a result of any lack of ambition.

Fine margins usually separate football matches (unless you're Wigan), and if we hadn't allowed an avoidable equaliser, instead coming away with a win from Anfield would the reports have suggested Hughes had played it exactly right?

Row between Hughes and Cassell?

This weeks piece from Neil Ashton in the NOTW suggests a problem at the club between Mark Hughes and Jim Cassell:

The simmering tensions between Mark Hughes and legendary academy director Jim Cassell erupted after his office was cleared without his knowledge.

Cassell, who has recently been promoted to work in Abu Dhabi, discovered files and paperwork from over 10 years' service had been dumped in a corridor at Manchester City's Platt Lane academy.

City's former academy chief fears he is being forced out of the club after falling out with City's hardline manager last season. Cassell returned from Abu Dhabi last week, where he splits his time heading up City's worldwide coaching programme, to find new academy director Andy Welsh in residence at his office.

Welsh knew Hughes when he was a player at Manchester United and is part of a coaching set-up that has been labelled "The Taffia" by some disaffected members of staff.

Rumours of a problem between the pair have circulated since the end of last season, yet any 'issue' has remained nothing more than that. There have also been interviews with Cassell regarding his new role and at no stage has he even hinted at a problem with Hughes or the coaching staff.

Merely mischief making?

Richards ready for 'showdown talks'

After being left out of the sixteen for yesterdays draw at Anfield, the Mirror today suggests this could lead to a head to head between Richard and Mark Hughes:

Micah Richards will this week have showdown talks with Manchester City boss Mark Hughes after being axed from the squad to face Liverpool yesterday.

The England defender was stunned to be told he had been left out of the 16 players on duty for the 2-2 draw. And Sunday Mirror Sport has been told by a source close to the 21-year-old that Richards will this week demand assurances from Hughes that he remains part of his plans.

The source said: “Micah expected to be involved at Liverpool and feels that he is being unfairly blamed for some of the team’s defensive problems this season.

It is long rumoured that Richard's attitude has not endeared himself to Hughes and the coaching staff and the return to fitness (and versatility) of Nedum Onouha has likely seen him drop even further down the pecking order.

With reports of Hughes unhappy with the options in this area and looking to strengthen in January, this could see Richards even further away from a recall to the side.

If (as also reported) he is offloaded, it would cap a huge fall from grace for a player who was a couple of years touted as England's hottest prospect and set for a big money move.

Liverpool player ratings

Given - Bounced back from midweek disappointment and no blame attached for either goal. Made a superb save early off Skrtel in the first half. 7

Zabaleta - Poor judgement in conceded a needless in a dangerous area that led to the first goal. Hasn't cemented the position as yet. 6

Toure - Withdrawn at half-time due to injury. Solid enough before then. 6

Lescott - Confidence appears to be growing. An impressive display and looks to be now settling into the side. 7

Bridge - Better than the Burnley debacle, but lacked the attacking purpose shown for the most part this season. 6

de Jong - Another consistent performance from an integral part of the side. Strong in the tackle (just ask Ryan Babel) and nullified Gerrard particularly in the first-half. Less reliant on him in the second half as we pressed more. 7.5

Barry - A slightly subdued performance, but in a more withdrawn role with the adjustment in formation. Withdrawn for Tevez on the hour. 6

Ireland - The formation allowed more licence for Ireland, something that was far more apparant in the second half when we opened up the play. A well taken goal and saw plenty of the ball in dangerous areas. Take note Mark Hughes. 8

Wright-Phillips - For the most part it was a frustrating performance. Moments of undoubted quality and he has the ability to spark the side, but can be wasteful in good areas. 7

Bellamy - Expected more up against Carragher, especially after an early booking. Showed flashes but too often out of the game. 6

Adebayor - An isolated figure in the first half as the cautious approach left him unable to link up. More into the game in the second-half and took his goal well. 6.5

Subs:

Onouha - First action of the season. Calm and composed in the main, but partly liable for the mix-up for Liverpool's equaliser. 6.5

Tevez - Came on at 1-0 down and was the catalyst for the come back. Showed the spark and energy that makes it difficult to leave him out. 7.5

Hughes on the Anfield point

“To be perfectly honest we are a little bit disappointed, because it was a game we felt quite comfortable in. We restricted them to very attempts on goal in the first half and we looked dangerous on the break.

“We got our noses in front but there is a sense of disappointment because there was an opportunity missed here today and I felt that Liverpool were there for the taking.

“I’m sure we’ll look back and view it as a good result because we are taking points off teams around us. That’s what we have to do, and it is only a matter of time before start winning again, because if we show the qualities we did today then it will happen. I was pleased with the general performance, we have switched off a couple of times but overall I thought it was a good display.”

>>Mark Hughes.

Ireland - 'We were robbed'

Post match comments from Stephen Ireland:

“Looking back at the end of the season we'll probably see it as a good point but we feel a bit robbed,” Ireland said.

“We played well, we went ahead but conceded too early. It was very unfortunate but it could have been worse.”

As for City's recent habit of drawing too many games, Ireland added: “It's unfortunate we've drawn those games but I think last year we were losing them, so I think it is a positive and it's onwards and upwards or us now.”

Liverpool thoughts

The handshake between Rafa Benitez and Mark Hughes at the end of today's 2-2 draw spoke volumes.

Although a pulsating second half had rescued what looked to be a turgid scoreless draw provided plenty of the attacking threat both sides possess, their frustrated expressions bore the knowledge of all too familiar frailties and failings that continue to cost their respctive sides.

In isolation, a point from a trip to Anfield is a good return, this is not a trip to Wigan or Birmingham where there is an expectation of three points. Yet in the context of a sixth in succession and having led it is another afternoon of frustration at points dropped.

Hughes had opted to rest Tevez - more tactical than form based - and the 4-3-3 line up should have provided plenty of scope for attack with Bellamy and Wright-Phillips able to run at the Liverpool full back pairing, with Ireland set to have more licence with the shield of both Barry and de Jong behind him.

It was not to be though as - and hardly helped by the stream of early stoppages - we lacked any sort of rythm or cohesion. The 4-3-3 seemed more of a 4-5-1 with neither Bellamy or Wright-Phillips imposing themselves and with Ireland far too deep. Adebayor was too often an isolated figure. It appeared a point was a return Hughes would be satisfied with.

As turgid as the first half was, the second half was as pulsating. Four goals in total, three from set pieces and number of goals conceded from set plays by both sides during 2009/10 is a major factor in why neither side currently resides in the top four.

The goal at least lit a fire under us and the introduction of Tevez was key. I thought Hughes would start him given the energy and running he brings and his introduction saw us play our best football of the game and we capitalised on this to take the lead, and make my prediction look prophetic.

An equaliser by Adebayor from a set piece defended every bit as shoddily as Liverpools opener, and then excellent interplay to see (and offside) Stephen Ireland put us ahead in front of The Kop.

From that position of advantage we should have closed out the game, yet 74 seconds later the score was level. If we had calmed the game down for five minutes or so I'm convinced we would have taken the points but from a positional and concentration standpoint we were again poor and allowed Benayoun an equaliser.

A frantic last ten minutes ensued with Liverpool having a couple of shouts for handball (given at the other end?) but we held firm to take a point which keeps us on the verge of the top four but yet another chance missed to impose ourselves upon it.

Quote of the day

Dreams everywhere crushed I'm sure:

"Joining City is not something that will ever happen. When you have got red blood, you cannot see yourself with blue blood. You go there and they have blue ketchup... it's just like `What are they doing?'

"I am not being disrespectful but I grew up a Red, hating City. When I go back with Everton I get absolutely slaughtered.

"It makes me laugh in a way because I understand what they are feeling."

>>Phil Neville.

Robinho's return

In the preview of tomorrow's game I touched on news of a possible return to the line-up for Robinho, and the Mark Hughes has spoken of this possibility:

"He is back training with the group, which is pleasing from everyone's point of view," said Hughes. He is travelling with us and we will make a decision [on his fitness] tomorrow. "It could be a bit early for him to be involved, but certainly he will be in the frame for next week's game against Hull."

As I've mentioned I don't see any circumstance whereby Robinho starts at Anfield but his return to the side is clearly not far away.

An interesting point to contemplate though is quite where he fits into the side. Hughes's preference for the most part of late has been a more rigid 4-4-2 than the 4-3-3 seen earlier in the season. The assumption has been that Robinho would slot in on the left hand side where he featured most often during 2008/09, but a 4-4-2 set up renders a Robinho on the left hand side largely impotent given he does not possess the defensive qualities required for a more withdrawn position in this formation. The 4-3-3 of course clearly allows for Robinho in a more advanced and attacking role, where his talents can be utilised more effectively.

If Hughes is intent on persisting with the 4-4-2 then, the only position Robinho can fit in is as one of the front two - and this could well be the most effective position for him. Playing as the 'off' striker to an Adebayor or Santa Cruz, he would be in a more dangerous, advanced role and able to then link with Bellamy, Wright-Phillips and an advancing midfield. His goalscoring record during 2008/09 was also an impressive one.

His absence through injury has done nothing to dampen the stories and interest about him, and for the most part the concensus opinion has been that Robinho would struggle mightily to even get near the starting line-up.

Now he has virtually regained full-fitness, he is on the cusp of a return and whilst he may be eased back into the starting line-up I don't see Hughes discounting him for long.

Which could be bad news for Carlos Tevez.

Liverpool preview

There are going to be fixtures at various times that are considered (overwhelmingly by the media it has to be said) as a chance to 'lay down a marker'.

Tomorrow's visit to Anfield will no doubt be seen as such an opportunity.

Of course, the outcome of tomorrow lunchtime's game is not going to decide anything over the course of a season barely a quarter of the way in but it is a game whereby the result could have ramifications over the short-term at least.

We head into the game on the back of five consecutive draws (or unbeaten since our only defeat of the season at Old Trafford), with the first sign of questions being asked of a side that came out of the gate at a tremendous pace at the beginning of the season. A defeat would therefore likely lead to more questions and a feeling that we have to make the necessary step up, whilst victory would announce our intention as a side with genuine aspirations; something Mark Hughes is all too aware of:

"Liverpool have been at the top end of the table and in Europe for a long, long time but we have to go to places like Anfield and get results. We showed with our performance at Old Trafford that we are more than capable of going to the 'big 4' clubs and turning in good performances. We are looking to do that again and make sure we have a real go. It's important because Liverpool are one of the teams we want to overcome this year."

The intrigue is heightened given Liverpool's recent troubles. On the brink of a Champions League exit, they have also stuttered badly in the league with a usually sound defence looking less than cohesive (what has happened to Jamie Carragher?). They have suffered five defeats already this season, yet they do stand only a point behind us with shows that whilst defeats are damaging, draws can so often derail ambition.

Following some of the more scurillous headlines and reports during the recent international break (do these seem to be longer and longer?) the MEN suggests that Robinho could be set for a 'shock' return. I expect Mark Hughes to switch back to a 4-4-2 line-up adopting away from home for the most part this season with Nigel de Jong regaining his place at the expense of either Gareth Barry or Stephen Ireland, with the latter the most likely to make way. This would mean Robinho on the bench, providing a fantastic option if the game is in the balance heading into the latter stages.

Much has been written of Liverpool's injury woes of late, with Fernando Torres likely absent and Alberto Aquilani not quite ready, but Steven Gerrard has pronounced himself fit.

Despite the odd result, Anfield has been a less than happy hunting ground over the years and a visit there is never usually cause for much optimism. The obvious outcome on recent form would be a draw, but I have a feeling there will be a definite result and will take us to get a come from behind 2-1 victory.

Bellamy concern over career

"I know there are not four or five years ahead of me, not with the injuries I've had," revealed Bellamy. "Maybe I've got one or two years at the most. It will be all over before I know it, so I'm just enjoying it."

>>Craig Bellamy

I remember when he signed for us, Bellamy spoke of it being a 'last chance' of sorts for him which could well explain the attitude and form he has shown since arriving. Whatever the reputation that preceeded him, he was renowned for someone who is very demanding of his fellow team mates and that has carried over to his time with us so far.

I don't think Bellamy will know an exact timescale of his remaining career, yet as he says his history does not suggest a career into his late thirties. That said though, motivation has never appeared to be an issue with him and I'm sure that whatever steps are required will be taken in order to prolong his career as long as physically possible.

The days best City links 11/19/2009

• Make or break for Liverpool as Manchester City threaten elite order | Paul Wilson | Football | guardian.co.uk

  tags: City

• The Lonesome Death of Roy Carroll: Bentley story back

  tags: City

• Sky Sports | Football News | Premier League | Manchester City | Di Maria in the dark

  tags: City

Posted from Diigo. The rest of my favorite links are here.

Future transfer strategy

There are some interesting comments from Garry Cook that have been picked up in or two areas of the press the past day concerning the future transfer strategy:

“That is absolutely (a model to aspire to) because, financially, it’s a better model than one where you get into negotiating a market price that has no pre-determining factors other than supply and demand.

“That’s a model I don’t subscribe to and one I don’t want to be beholden to. I would rather control or manage our destiny over the long-term.

“What we are clear on is that we don’t think there will be another couple of windows like we have just been through. And I think you’re going to see Manchester City really ramp up its activity in the youth area, in the development area of players.

“There’s often opinion that we are just going to keep buying players, but that’s actually the antithesis of what we’re trying to do.”

It is no secret that the focus on scouting and the Academy on a more worldwide scale has been ramped up over the past year - notably with Jim Cassell taking on his new role as 'overseer' - and it is a strategy that makes sense in the long term.

Cook I believe has spoken previously on this issue, but more in line with defending the high transfer fees and wages that have been outlayed so far, a move that is not necessarily sustainable if you are trying to balance the books but important given our starting position and the need to elevate the club into being a perennial Champions League contender where the income and revenue streams generated naturally increase as a result.

Once you are at that level where you are competing at the very top, the need to add the best part of half a dozen players during a transfer window is no longer there and you operate more along the lines of adding just one 'ready made' players during the summer along with younger, more long term 'projects' that can be developed over time.

This though is still some time away of course. There is talk of the January window in particular being a quiet one - and history shows there are not many big moves during this month - should we be in or on the fringes of the Champions League qualification places, with a very real shot at the top four then I can see Cook pulling the trigger on a couple of big moves to provide that extra impetus over the remainder of the season.

The days best City links 11/18/2009

• Manchester City follow Arsenal’s lead on youth | Manchester City - Times Online

  tags: City

• Manchester City relieved as Robinho misses Oman test - but Nilmar shines to stake claim for Eastlands star's Brazil place | Mail Online

  tags: City

• Grieving Vincent Kompany axed from Belgium squad as Dick Advocaat punishes Manchester City star's late shows | Mail Online

  tags: City

Posted from Diigo. The rest of my favorite links are here.

Given - 'I want to finish my career here'

“I'd love to finish my career here,” he declared. “I haven't been here long, but I already feel at home and love the club.

“I grew up a Celtic supporter and they have a big place in my heart, but I really hope I can finish my career here. You can never say never, but I'd like to think I will.

It's a great period to be at City. There's such excitement in the dressing room. There's a real feeling of optimism and we believe we're going places. It's been a great adventure for me and I couldn't be happier."

>>Shay Given.

Good positive stuff from Given, and I can safely say his performances since being signed last January have quashed the misgivings I intially had when he signed, turning in both a high level of consistency and the ability to make the kind of match winning (or point saving) saves that we have lacked since David James left the club.

Petrov sidelined

Martin Petrov is facing a couple of weeks on the sidelines after picking up a knee injury in the current international break.

The winger has a slight sprain of the inner ligament in the left knee and could be out for up to two weeks.

Petrov was with his national squad preparing for a couple of friendlies when he was forced to return back to City’s Carrington training ground, where he is now undergoing rehab work.

>>mcfc.co.uk

Disappointing news given his recent good form and the important trio of games on the horizon which he now looks set to miss.

It does however put Robinho a step closer to the starting line-up given Petrov is one of his main rivals for a position.

The days best City links 11/16/2009

• Norfstander: City player lifts World Cup!

  tags: City

• City facing Euro ban if they don't break even - Premier League, Football - The Independent

  tags: City

Posted from Diigo. The rest of my favorite links are here.

Bellamy the leader

There were no punch-ups and no fists flying in Manchester City's dressing room last week. Just good old-fashioned verbals.

Typically, it was a vintage performance by Craig Bellamy, bawling out his team-mates after they tossed away a win. In the line of fire was City's back four - Pablo Zabaleta, Kolo Toure, Joleon Lescott and Wayne Bridge - following their draw with Burnley.

He pointed the finger at all of them during an explosive dressing-room inquest, accusing them of lacking concentration in the final minutes.

>>notw.co.uk

I'm not usually a huge fan of stories that Neil Ashton has written about us, but he makes a very valid observation in this piece regarding the leadership in the side. Despite the huge sums invested which has brought an infusion of quality into the squad there doesn't appear to be a real stand out leader capable of galvanising the side; a focal point of the side such as a Gerrard or a Terry.

Perhaps this is evidenced by how difficult it was to select a candidate as captain to replace Richard Dunne. Kolo Toure, Nigel de Jong, Shay Given, Vincent Kompany, Stephen Ireland and Gareth Barry all appeared to be credible candidates before Toure was named as the permanent captain by Mark Hughes.

Early days into his tenure as skipper of course, but whilst Toure has fitted easily into the side since his move and no doubt has the respect of the squad his demeanour doesn't suggest he is a natural leader, something Ashton notes:

Toure is softly-spoken, the quiet type who is always willing to offer advice but rarely shows an aggressive side to his character. That is precisely what City are crying out for, a player who commands respect and can rally the troops to the cause when times are tough.

Bellamy is just the type, a Mr Motivator who is not afraid to remind Manchester City's players of their objectives. He was doing that in the dressing room last weekend, jogging a few memories after their fifth successive draw in the Premier League.

There were many who scoffed when Bellamy was brought in, and predicted he would be a divisive figure in the dressing room as opposed to one with leadership qualities, a rabble rouser rather than a player with the respect of his peers.

It is no secret Hughes is a big fan of Bellamy, and stuck his neck out somewhat when he brought him to the club given the reputation that he carries around with him.

His name didn't garner any mention when the captaincy debate was in full flow (primarily I guess because he by no means thought of as a regular starter) but given his level of play and how he has conducted himself this season the idea of Bellamy as captain may not be as far fetched as it would one time have been.

Ireland happy with international decision

I've written before about how good an interview Stephen Ireland is, always providing a great insight into situations with an honesty rarely offered by footballers.

There are a couple of features today in The Telegraph and The Guardian in which Ireland discusses - on the eve of Ireland's World Cup play-off with France - his continued absence from the international scene, and despite reports that have hinted at a return he firmly closes the door on a potential return:

But while admitting he will watch Giovanni Trapattoni's team tackle the French when he returns to Manchester, Ireland has emphatically ruled out the possibility of an about-turn on his international retirement and insisted that the hate mail does not concern him.

"I've left my country now, and obviously left under the wrong terms, but it's happened and, since then my life has gone really nicely. Even if they get to the World Cup, there's not a part of me that will think, 'That could have been me, I could have been there'."

Robinho rules himself out

Following the story blowing up this morning, a potential problem has been averted with Robinho ruling himself out of this weekends friendly with England:

"I really don't want to be in the middle of a row between City and Brazil," he said the £32.5m signing from Real Madrid. "But my obligation is to be here and that is supported by Fifa. I came here to look after myself [medically]. I'm just trying to focus on playing again."Asked whether he thought he would be fit for this evening's game against England, he replied: "Not yet. Maybe I will be for the next game [in Oman]."

Brazil coach Dunga is none too pleased with us though, irked at how he has perceived we have handled the whole issue:

"We are the five-time World Cup champions," said Dunga. "They can't just expect to come to our hotel and take him away again. This idea, of sending the guy here and then taking him away, was never going to happen. There is a hierarchy here that has to be respected. We are going to send him back to Manchester City in the right condition to play."

You know, I'm pleased it was Robinho who has made the decision to hold himself out of the game tomorrow, rather than it developing into an issue which escalated into something that could have long term ramifications.

Perhaps if he does play next week, a light run out in a friendly against Oman could be an effective part of his recovery.

Cook - 'A quiet January in store'

"January is always busy, busier for some more than others," said Cook.

"Mark has some thoughts and some plans but they are by no means as aggressive as they have been in the past.

"We have a great squad of players that are just getting bedded in and we might find there is more speculation about what we might do than what we actually do."

>>MEN.

Sylvinho enjoying life

He may not be getting the starts he hoped, but our new(ish) Brazilian appears to be impressed with what he has seen so far:

"I would definitely like to remain longer, the project to make this club one of the best in Europe and the world cannot be completed in six months or a year and I would like to be part of it for as long as possible.

What really pleased me was finding how big this club was already and that everyone around it is working hard to make it even bigger. We have a lot of good players and an intelligent and good man in manager Mark Hughes but the key is to make sure the mentality in the dressing room is right.

"Every minute of the day in every week has to be geared towards thinking about winning three points in the next game.

"We need to make people believe that we can do that. It is very important. Mentality is very important. Whatever we are aiming for, be it, top four, top three or top two, it is going to be difficult but easier if the mentality is there."

The feeling is clearly mutual with Mark Hughes equally speaking highly of the player:

"We do our homework on players and obviously his ability is not in question but we also knew that he is not only a good footballer but a fantastic individual.

"I can see him as a coach when he stops playing. He spends quite a bit of time speaking to guys during training sessions, passing on his experience. He has the personality that lends itself to a coaching role."

Despite his limited action since his arrival, he turned in a competent enough display on debut and has enough quality and smarts about him to suggest he could put pressure on Wayne Bridge for a starting role over the course of the season.

McDonald continues Walsall loan

Walsall have confirmed that Clayton McDonald will stay at the Banks's Stadium on loan for a third month.

The 20-year-old Manchester City defender will be available to the Saddlers up to and including the trip to Millwall on Saturday, 12 December.

McDonald, the son of former Saddlers striker Rod, has made eight appearances since arriving at the start of September, but has not got onto the field since the defeat at MK Dons on 10 October.

>>bbcsport.co.uk.

Vassell evicted

Darius Vassell is considering a return to England after he was evicted from his Turkish hotel because his club Ankaragucu failed to pay the bill.

The 29-year-old has voiced concerns over the club’s financial problems following a recent change in ownership. Players’ wages have frequently been paid late, training has been cancelled and now he has been thrown out of his hotel.

Vassell, who has scored twice in seven games, said: ‘I don’t know what’s happening. I have been told that I have to leave the hotel.

>>mailonline.

Club v Country

Hard to keep him out of the headlines at the moment:

They had hoped to dissuade Robinho from reporting for international duty but relented after agreeing to send their own doctor with him so the injury could be assessed by Brazil's medical staff.

City had hoped Robinho would then fly back with them but have had to relent further, agreeing to him staying with Brazil – although they did not expect him to fly on to Oman for next Tuesday's match.

It is being reported that Mark Hughes is none too happy, believing that his trip would be a similar exercise to that which saw Pablo Zabaleta jet in and straight out of Argentina after being assessed:

"We wanted them [Brazil] to know in no uncertain terms that we felt it was very much a risk if Robi were involved in either of the two games," Hughes said. "He has had one training session in eight to 10 weeks so to think he would be ready for a full international against England, I would suggest that would be foolhardy."

I know this is being talked of as a situation where a wantaway player will openly defy his clubs wishes, thus increasing the chances of him being offloaded, but from this report it suggests a logical reason for him remaining with the Brazil party - and that it is not necessarily with a view to him featuring in either game:

"Whether he'll play this game [against England] or next week we are taking day by day," Rodrigo Piva, the Brazil team spokesman, said. "He'll be assessed again tomorrow [Friday]. We know City want him with them but the situation for us is that we have only three games before the World Cup so we need Robinho here."

The club referred to much of the speculation surrounding Robinho as mischief making, and there is no doubt there plenty of people with a vested interest in what he does. From a playing standpoint it doesn't make sense for the club to sell him on at this stage, with the only reasoning being if his presence is damaging the squad and what Hughes is trying to achieve.

There has been no suggestion of that so far, and Stephen Ireland maintained this week Robinho was happy at the club. It is of course difficult to know what to believe given we are not party to the inner workings of the club.

Perhaps until such a time that Robinho actually comes out and says he wants to leave (instead of it merely being insinuated) then maybe it is a situation where we should be taking things at face value?

The days best City links 11/13/2009

• UAE 1 Manchester City 0 - As it happened - Manchester City - Football - Sport - Manchester Evening News

  tags: City

• UAE 1 Manchester City 0: True blue - Sheikh Mansour tastes defeat in his first game | Mail Online

  tags: City

• Sky Sports | Football News | Premier League | Manchester City | Hughes confirms Robinho stance

  tags: City

• Garry Cook happy to ruffle feathers in order to make City slicker | Football - Times Online

  tags: City

Posted from Diigo. The rest of my favorite links are here.

Ireland on Elano

There are plenty of stories being knocked out this week from Abu Dhabi - no doubt in attempt by journos to justify the expense of jetting them out for the best part of the week, and The Guardian carries one that, whilst not a new subject, is always interesting in how it lifts the lid on the disharmony during the 2008/09 season.

As ever it seems, it is Stephen Ireland doing the talking:

"He [Hughes] had it tough," Ireland recalls. "Some players didn't want to be there. Some players just didn't want to buy into it. Elano and Jô, they didn't want to put in the extra effort and it wasn't like it was that hard. It wasn't like you were being run like a dog, just that it was more professional and more based on team spirit, and these players didn't want to get into that stuff."

Elano was subsequently sold to Galatasaray. "Under Sven, Elano got away with anything," Ireland continues. "It was Elano's world, to be honest. The gaffer came in and there were massive changes, and Elano couldn't adjust. He's a great guy, a nice guy, I got on great with him, and he's a very talented player, but he could have added a lot more to his game and been a lot better than what he is."

"It was a shame because I am sure they [Elano and Jô] will look back and regret it. Even with Elano, he didn't play too often last year but when he did play, he did improve. He might not say that himself, but he added an awful lot to his game, which I think was down to the gaffer – but I don't think Elano would admit that or even realise it."

Whilst it was obviously a tough fight for Hughes during last season, it is a battle that he has won with key component Elano offloaded whilst Jo has been cast adrift, perhaps never to return. There were plenty of fans during last season which were firmly against Hughes over this issue, and us bloggers who sided with Hughes took plenty of heat at times.

Can anyone say though that the decisions Hughes in terms of the players brought in and moved out haven't been haven't been the correct one? The club undoubtedly now has a squad that is behind Hughes, bought into his idea and above all, is appears to be a unified force.

Well, with one perhaps still undecided.

Onouha undecided

Speaking in Abu Dhabi, the topic of international allegiance is something that has again been posed to Nedum Onouha, with him admitting he is undecided as to whether to firmly commit to either England or Nigeria:

"It is a tough call," he said. "I would love to play for England. But I also get a certain feeling when I see Nigeria play. I can imagine myself really enjoying it and wanting to be part of it. But it is not that simple. If you play for England that is fine.

"It is not the best time to make such a big decision, so for now I am not making one," he said. "I would like to think I am young enough to see another World Cup. I think it is made easier because I enjoy club football. That is my main focus.

"If a time comes when I have to make a decision I will speak to a few people and hope to make the right call."

The courting of Onouha by Nigeria is nothing new of course, and as the article states, the fact they have not qualified for the World Cup makes the non-decision that bit easier.

By the time the next World Cup roles around though, Onouha will be approaching his late-twenties and by then will surely have to make a decision.

The fact he is delaying in commiting to Nigeria suggests his first choice would perhaps be England, but - and despite his undoubted talent - a call-up seems some way off yet.

More Robinho rumour

Fresh after posting this came another report regarding Robinho surfaced, again in The Guardian, and it is fairly conclusive in its tone:

Manchester City's attempts to placate Robinho and keep the most expensive footballer in England happy have failed, with the Brazilian desperate to leave in the January transfer window. City are aware of his position and, despite strong denials on their mid-season training camp here in the United Arab Emirates, they have reluctantly accepted that the player whose £32.5m transfer was supposed to symbolise the club's ambitions wants no further part in the revolution.

This is of goes completely against the very firm stance that both Garry Cook and Mark Hughes took yesterday, but the report states the club have 'privately' conceded that Robinho wants away:

The question now seems to be when, rather than if, Robinho leaves. Hughes is keen not to lose such a talented player in the middle of the season but, if the Brazilian has his way, he will move at the earliest opportunity.

Without a finger on the pulse (or a very reliable source at least) it is impossible to know precisely what the situation is with Robinho. My personal view is that he stays - until the end of the summer at least, as I don't see the benefit to be gained by short-term loan deal.

We have seen a drip feed of innuendo from sources over the past few months purpoting to be what Robinho is thinking, yet nothing has come directly from the player himself which given his history at Real whereby he was extremely vocal in his desire to force a move possibly suggests that he is content at the club.

This is clearly going to drag on and on - as a disatisfied Robinho makes for good copy of course - and the imminent opening of the transfer window is not likely to dampen speculation much.

The hope then is that it does not cause the distraction it has the potential to - which is an added reason to put recent results to one side and get back to winning ways.

Hughes lambasts MOTD

I wrote previouslythat he had been protective of the defence in recent times, but Mark Hughes went on the offensive today with MOTD - and particularly Alan Hansen - in his sights:

"Pundits on Match of the Day or whatever just have an opportunity to nail individuals in the public domain," said the Manchester City boss.

"But we are not going to do. We look to analyse our mistakes and make sure, in future, we are better in similar situations. I am sure that their process involves looking at incidents in games, but not taking it as a whole.

"That is the role in life that they have decided to follow and that is the way it has to be. But there is a frustration when they don't go into particularly in-depth analysis.

"I would question how many games they actually watch live, from the start to the conclusion of games."

There are a couple of points regarding this, namely that Hansen was right to be critical on what was a poor performance yet Hughes raises an interesting point in questioning how much of a game pundits on the whole actually see, yet readily form opinions on their performance and form.

Saturday aside, Bridge has performed well this season for me - a definite upgrade on Javier Garrido, but what is important here is the very public defence of him (and the defence as a whole) and it is has been a consistent theme in Hughes developing an almost siege-type mentality within the squad, something that we have seen elsewhere used to great success over the years.

QPR youngster linked

A sign of the times I suppose:

Manchester City boss Mark Hughes is ready to let QPR have two players on loan - as part of a massive bid to land wonder kid Raheem Sterling.

Hughes and his team are so desperate to get the 14-year-old boy genius that they have told Rangers they can have a couple of their fringe men plus £1 million to sign him now.

Sterling has been earning rave reviews playing for the Rangers under-18 team and starred on his England under-16 debut last week in front of Brian Marwood and Brian Kidd.

The young Londoner will not sign a long-term deal at Rangers and City want to buy him now in a record deal - and are making it more tempting with the offer of players.

Does anyone know anything about the 'boy genius'? QPR report has more, but I can't confess to have even heard of him so any insight would be appreciated.