Johnson bid 'increased'

Sky Sports News understands that Manchester City have made an improved offer for Middlesbrough winger Adam Johnson.

City made a move for the talented 22-year-old earlier in the week, only for Boro boss Gordon Strachan to reject the approach.

Although Johnson is understood to want the chance to hold transfer talks, Boro, for now, hold the key to his short-term future.

>>skysports.com.

As I posted previously, I expected an increased bid from us and would be confident of it being successful. Middlesbrough, I'm sure, would take a bid in the region of £6 million as opposed to seeing him walk when his contract expires in the summer.

It always amazes me though quite why deals are left until the very end of the transfer window, and unless we can get a fee agreed soon we run the danger of not being able to complete by tomorrow's 5pm deadline.

Toure on the Portsmouth win

The returning captain - and my man of the match - on today's victory:

"It was an important win for us. If we want to be in the top four then we know that we need to win these kind of games. This League is really tough - it doesn't matter who you play, you have to raise your game and try your hardest to win. That's what we had to do against Portsmouth.

"At the start of the season we dropped a few points to the lower teams. But we are strong as a team and we defended well today after the two goals that we scored."

"We've got Hull next week and then Bolton. They are really important games for us. We need to take the points against the teams who are in the lower part of the table."

Would we have lost earlier in the season playing as we did today? Possibly, but although we were not particularly good today one thing that was noticeable was that the team retained their focus and concentration, particularly in defence.

Earlier in the season, what was hurting us throughout the run of draws was poor decision making and a lack of concentration which led to crucial goals being conceded.

Kudos then to Roberto Mancini for the way in which he has focused on this area - an aspect that will also be key in our next two fixtures, that we realistically have to take six points from.

Portsmouth ratings

Given - A couple of anxious moments early on but rarely tested. 6

Zabaleta - Some good attacking forays until forced off through injury - 6.5

Toure - Returned to the line up and a strong presence in the side. My man of the match. 7

Kompany - Continued his form of late. Hopefully the injury is not serious. 7

Garrido - Lack of pace again evident today and exposed on occasions. 5.5

de Jong - Strong performance yet again but could have received more than a yellow. 6.5

Barry - Not getting into games enough. Place must be under threat. 5

Ireland - Nice ball for the opening goal and added creativity today. 6.5

Petrov - Confident as always, but a little selfish in his decision making. 6

Adebayor - Good to see him back in the side and took his goal well. 7

Tevez - Plenty of energy and running but lacked the quality of late. 6.5

Subs:

Onouha - Slotted in with ease at right back. 6.5

Boyata - Accomplished performance after replacing the injured Kompany. 6.5

Bellamy - Added importance pace late on. 6.5

City 2 - 0 Portsmouth

One by product of the raised expectations at the club over the past 12-18 months has been an attitude where far less patience is afforded. Clearly today was not a particularly good performance, yet it was by no means a poor one. Judging by some of the post-match reaction you wouldn't have thought so though.

Ahead of the game my view (not a lone one I hasten to add) was that the three points were all but ours, and that anything a comfortable and convincing win was expected. Perhaps that was a mentality shared by the players given the evidence of the opening half an hour where it was Portsmouth, and not ourselves, who had the pace and energy. Portsmouth had early chances too, but crucially couldn't take them.

There were more formation changes again today - variants of 4-4-2 and 4-3-3 - which may have unsettled the side too. Mancini is clearly a flexible coach, and not one for allowing the game to remain static at any time.

As manfully as they began, it was evident that this Portsmouth do not possess sufficient quality throughout their side and it was a moment of quality that led to us opening the scoring. The restored Stephen Ireland, picking out the run of Emmanuel Adebayor (a borderline offside call) with a direct ball. Adebayor's first touch was excellent to bring the ball under control and the finish left David James with no chance.

With time ticking down on the first half, the game was all but killed off. Vincent Kompany beating his marker (Tal Ben Haim) at a corner to powerfully head home for the second. Whilst we have thrown enough leads away over the course of this season, it was a relatively safe bet that the game was all but over.

We played better in the second half and there was some good moments and passages of play, but lacked a little cohesion and collectiveness in attack to press home the advantage. Portsmouth missed an opportunity or two themselves to get back into the game late on before Tevez hit the post but there could be no real arguments as to where the points headed.

It was an important victory given results elsewhere this weekend (Villa and Liverpool winning, Tottenham drawing) and we round out January in a healthy position. February looks to be a tough proposition in the league with trips to Hull, Stoke and Chelsea alongside home games against Bolton and Liverpool.

There will be ten games remaining in the 2009/10 league campaign following this set of fixtures. Being in possession of fourth spot at the end of them has to be the requirement.

Portsmouth preview

Whilst a semi-final defeat would be frustrating enough, the manner in which we exited on Wednesday evening will have resulted in a squad of players eager to get back on the pitch and get it out of their systems.

For a choice of opponent, perhaps Portsmouth are exactly what is required. Currently bottom of the league, players not being paid and facing an uncertain future with a winding up order scheduled in February would be bad enough. Added to this though is the fact that they have failed to win in their past fifteen visits to Maine Road/CoMS and face us in the midst of a thirteen game home unbeaten run and a win will see us set new records in that regard and also for scoring in consecutive home games (currently at twenty).

From the limited time I have seen of Portsmouth they have appeared to be a spirited, if somewhat limited side, perhaps galvanised into a united mentality by the off-field troubles but surely that is sustainable only for so long. The more that emerges about their current plight, the more obvious the sheer scale of mis-management at the club appears to have been.

They have re-signed Jamie O'Hara on loan from Tottenham but have uncertainty over both Asimir Begovic and Younes Kaboul and looking through their squad they will face an uphill battle to avoid the drop this season unless they can somehow strengthen over the next few days.

I would be incredibly surprised (and disappointed) if Roberto Mancini did not revert back to a 4-4-2 formation to accomodate Emmanuel Adebayor. If so, the likely candidate to drop out would be Pablo Zabaleta, although he did enough in the second half on Wednesday to suggest he would be a better fit than Javi Garrido at left back. Mancini may also recall Kolo Toure to the starting line-up in place of Dedryck Boyata.

With Wembley plans now put to one side (at least until the next round of the FA Cup anyway), focus resumes on our bid for a top four spot. It is no stretch to say that three points really is a must if we have designs on Champions League qualification and a win is exactly what I am expecting.

As emphatic a victory as this one would be very welcome.

Game notes:

• City are unbeaten in their last 13 home league matches since a 3-1 defeat by Fulham in April (W10, D3). If they avoid defeat on Sunday it will be their longest unbeaten top-flight run since an 18-match streak ended in September 1981.
• They have scored in their last 20 league matches at the City of Manchester Stadium. If they score against Portsmouth it will be their longest goal-scoring run since 1958.
• Portsmouth have won just one of their last six league games (W1, D2, L3).
• They have lost 10 of their 11 matches against top-half opponents this season - the worst record in the division. The exception was the 2-0 win over Liverpool in December.
• Pompey have scored 19 league goals this season - only Wolves had managed fewer prior to this weekend's fixtures.
• They have only earned two points from losing positions this season.

Mariga deal reported

Not one that has garned much attention amongst the bigger players in the media, but hat tip to Blue Days for bringing this one to attention.

It is being reported both on calcionews24.com and allafrica.com that we have agreed to a 10 million Euro deal to sign Parma's Kenyan international midfielder McDonald Mariga:

Parma have accepted a E10 million offer (about Sh722 million) from Manchester City for Kenyan international McDonald Mariga, according to reports from Italy and England.

Mariga had been linked with Italian champions Inter but Parma sporting director, Pietro Leonardi, apparently met with City on Thursday.

He was able to convince the English club over 22-year-old Mariga's E10m fee during a series of talks which untangled the move.

"Once the transfer is compelete, Mariga will become Kenya's richest sportsman and the first ever to play in the English Premier League.

City turned to Mariga after seeing negotiations stall with Real Madrid in their attempts to sign Fernando Gago. City were ready to bid £6million for Mariga, according to reports in Italy, and could offer Valeri Bojinov as part of the deal.

Interesting stuff and a move (if true) that has flown completely under the radar. From his bio on wikipedia it seems he is a tall, rangy midfielder who spent time in Sweden before his move to Parma.

One potential hitch with a deal could be his Kenyan nationality, which given their lowly standing in the world game may impact on the possibility of a work permit being granted.

If anyone knows anything further about him though please leave a comment below.

UPDATE: The Bluemoon twitter feed is also suggesting that the deal will go through.

Bruce confirms Benjani talks

"We have entered into discussions with his representatives about the player.

We have just looked at the situation and we feel we are juggling the balls in the air a little bit and you are just hoping the squad is big enough and strong enough. With the injuries we have, we are worried we are a little bit light in that area, and we have decided that we will try to make a move."

>>Steve Bruce.

Sunderland move for Benjani

Sky Sports News understands Sunderland are in talks to sign Manchester City striker Benjani.

Benjani's future at City has been the subject of speculation for the last few weeks with a number of clubs credited with an interest in the Zimbabwe international.

West Ham were believed to be close to signing the former Portsmouth man, but they have ended their interest in Benjani.

Sunderland have now jumped to the head of the queue for Benjani with the player understood to be on Wearside for talks.

>>skysports.com

It appears that Roberto Mancini would not stand in the way should Benjani wish to leave:

“I spoke with him two days ago and he told me he had a possibility to go and play.

We have a lot of strikers but he it is up to him to decide. “If he wants to stay here I will be happy. He is a good player and a good man.”

Mixed reports over Cook future

Seemingly not one to be out of the headlines for long, Garry Cook finds himself centre stage once again today with the suggestion in The Guardian that ADUG are giving 'serious consideration' to the possibility of replacing him in the summer:

Manchester City's owners in Abu Dhabi are starting to give serious consideration to the position of the chief executive, Garry Cook, at the end of the season after becoming increasingly perturbed about his leadership style and the frequency with which he has attracted bad publicity.

Contrasting this though is a piece in The Independent, and somewhat a surprise given - as JPB also notes - that both are usually on the same page is the suggestion that Cook has the backing of the owners:

The Arabs have been astonished by the blizzard of publicity which City attract and they view Cook as an individual who has taken the hit for them after Hughes' departure last month. They also consider him pivotal to aspects of the club's corporate transformation which are alien to many traditionalists, and recognise the substantial role he had in player recruitment before Brian Marwood's arrival as football administrator. Cook, who remains generally popular with City fans, was heavily involved in the signing of Shay Given.

It should be noted that the club, via The MEN have dismissed the suggestion that Cook is on his way and I have to say I would be more inclinced to believe he will remain at the helm.

Cook is clearly a figure who divides opinion amongst fans, but it is clear that although his gaffes have been unwelcome and not endeared him too many, he has helped drive the club forward over the past 18 months - something surely not lost on those who employ him.

Johnson deal moving closer?

It appears as though progress is being made over the potential signing of Middlesbrough's Adam Johnson.

After Gordon Strachan poured water on a possible move yesterday, Sky Sports reported that Johnson himself was keen to speak to us over a move and today's MEN states a deal is 'edging' closer:

Manchester City are closing in on Middlesbrough winger Adam Johnson to replace the departing Robinho.

MEN Sport understands the Blues have tabled a £5m bid for the 22-year-old, whose contract at the Riverside expires in the summer.

The departure of Robinho on Thursday on six months' loan to Santos has freed up a place in the City squad, and Johnson has asked Boro for permission to talk to City.

I do like Johnson as a player from what I have seen, and if he is interested in a move, given his contract expires in the summer I'd imagine Middlesbrough would take a fee in the region of £5 million or so.

UPDATE: Sky Sports are reporting Roberto Mancini as 'confirming' his interest in Johnson.

The end for Robinho?

Official confirmation of the move:

The Club can confirm that it has reached agreement with Santos for Robinho to join them on a six-month loan. The agreement takes immediate effect and ends on August 4.

Santos will assume all of the player's contract terms, including wages and bonuses. Robinho will travel to Brazil on Sunday to begin his loan period.

Manager Roberto Mancini said: "Robinho is someone who needs to be playing regularly and we wish him well for the period of his loan."

Perhaps the only surprise coming out of this is the sentance; "Santos will assume all of the player's contract terms, including wages and bonuses" as it initially appeared that we would still be on the hook for the majority of Robinho's wages. Reports of having first option on promising youngsters has been suggested and it would be interesting to look at exactly how Santos are funding his contract given the fact Brazilian clubs - despite the presence of Ronaldo, Adriano and Roberto Carlos - have nowhere the resources to match their European counterparts.

Judging by the thread on the MEN story of the move it has really polarised fans and likewise with the poll here on Bitter and Blue. The most talented since Kinkladze or a complete dud?

His early days at the club were headline-grabbing from the moment he arrived on deadline day in August 2008. A goal on debut against Chelsea and individual moments of quality were the theme and a hero was born. As the winter closed in though, so did his early form. A loss of form coincided with poor results and the pressure grew on Mark Hughes. Away games brought new lows and the criticism grew as his effectiveness dwindled and reports of a rift between him and Hughes surfaced.

The 2009/10 season began and it was clear that Robinho was no longer first choice for Hughes. Struggling to regain the highs of the previous year, he spent time on the bench and on the rare opportunities he had was ineffective and perhaps most criminal for City fans, appeared not to have the required desire. After coming back from injury, he had a couple of opportunities under Roberto Mancini, who talked of him being an important player.

The nadir was perhaps reached though during the 2-0 defeat at Everton, when having been introduced as an early substitute for the injured Roque Santa Cruz, he suffered the indignity of being himself substituted later in the game. How the media pounced. With rumours of a move to Brazil surfacing, he was left out of the squad for the trip to United this week before the loan deal was announced this afternoon.

World Cup year or not, what Robinho needs is a consistent run of games to get himself back in the shape and form that he was in over the first half of last season, when he was a genuine game changing player and proved the undoubted quality that he has. The difficulty this season as opposed to last is given the strengthening of the squad in the attacking positions there is very little scope for him to get the opportunity for a consistent run. Last season of course, there was no Martin Petrov to challenge on the left and Craig Bellamy only arrived at the end of January. Realistically, there is no way he beats either player out on current form, and it is inconceivable that would change between now and the end of the season.

I do view the situation as somewhat of a romantic in that to all but throw in the towel on a player who is a real game changer and as captivating to watch as Robinho is a real shame and cling to the hope that he can become an integral part of our push for success both over the remainder of 2009/10 and beyond.

Although it is a loan deal that has been agreed, it is difficult to see a future for him at the club. Had a side been willing to pay a suitable fee to facilitate a permanent move, it is certain that a transfer would have been agreed. As it stands, on August 4th he is slated to return to Manchester yet will surely never pull on the blue shirt again.

As much as the hope is he could somehow come back revitalised and ready for 2010/11, unfortunately the history of football is littered with big name high profile examples of players at clubs who, for one reason or another, just failed to make it work.

It now appears that the name of Robinho will be the next to join that list.

Gago signing 'unlikely'

Sky Sports are having a busy old day, and there is yet another transfer story involving ourselves, and like the Adam Johnson one, it is not necessarily positive news:

And with Real having failed to secure cover in midfield, one of the player's two agents, Marcelo Lombilla, is meeting with Real director general Jorge Valdano to try and resolve the situation.

"Lombilla is in Madrid and has met twice with Valdano but I do not believe that he will leave," Gago's other agent, Zoran Vekic, said.

"There is still a meeting pending, but I doubt that Madrid will let him join Manchester City because it is not a question of money."

Johnson bids rejected

Although reports last night appeared to be confident in seeing us land Adam Johnson, the suggestion today is that it may not be so cut and dried.

Sky Sports are quoting Middlesbrough boss Gordon Strachan as having dismissed all bids outright for him:

"We have had verbal offers in the last week for Adam, but nothing has changed," said Strachan. Adam is still here and I would expect him still to be here for the last 19 games of the season."

I believe that despite Middlesbrough being relegated from the Premier League last season, they are on a relatively sound footing financially so a requirement to sell may not be as pressing as it is with Crystal Palace and Victor Moses.

Alternatively, it could merely be an attempt to see interested parties up their bid with the closing of the transfer window ever nearer.

Garrido's rallying call

No surprise that the first rallying call has been sounded in the wake of last night's exit, from full-back Javier Garrido:

"It is not easy to take because we were nearly in the final. We showed we are a quality team and we deserved extra time.

But you must concentrate, especially against a team like Manchester United who can score at any time."What happened is sad but we must lift ourselves," he said.

The Portsmouth game is very important because we must keep working to finish in the top four. Also, we are still in the FA Cup, so we must do our best to get to the final of that."

It is easy to say of course, but I'm anticipating a dominating performance on Sunday at home to Portsmouth.

Motta deal 'close'

Further to the reported bid for Adam Johnson, it has also been suggested that a deal for rumoured target Marcelo Motta could be imminent according to Sky Sports:

Roma and Udinese co-own Motta, but the Italian duo are willing to send him to England on loan as he does not figure in their plans this season.

Motta's representatives are believed to have held talks with City earlier this week and the former Italy Under 21 international is due to fly into England in the next few days to tie up the move.

The question with Motta is how much of an upgrade of the current players in the position will he be as we hardly short of quality in that area.

nother interesting point in the transfers and rumours we are involved in is that in general they have been for short term loans (until the end of the season). Does this suggest it is by no means guaranteed that Roberto Mancini will be with us beyond the end of 2009/10?

Johnson bid reported

Manchester City will attempt to get over their Carling Cup disappointment by signing England Under-21 star Adam Johnson from Middlesbrough.

It is understood the Blues have lodged a bid for Johnson and they hope to conclude a deal before the end of the transfer window.

Johnson scored twice for Boro in their victory over Doncaster on Tuesday night but has been touted for a move away from the Riverside since the Teessiders were relegated last season.

>>MEN.

With the focus soon to shift away from the Carling Cup and derby games, potential transfers and likely targets will fall back under the spotlight and this is one that has been reported almost immediately following tonight's game.

Johnson was an impressive figure during the early stages of the recent FA Cup tie and comes with a big reputation. No doubt he would be an option on the left hand side to fill the gap in the squad created by Robinho's imminent departure.

Would this mean a possible move for Crystal Palace's Victor Moses may no longer be forthcoming though?

United ratings

Given - A couple of excellent saves and calm throughout. 7.5

Richards - Strong defensively and really contributed to the attack. Finding some real form. 7.5

Boyata - Hugely impressive for the most part. Calm, confident and composed. 7.5

Kompany - Solid, dependable and developing a nice partnership with his compatriot. 7

Garrido - Very one dimensional and lack of pace exposed against the lively Nani. 6

Wright-Phillips - Threatened on occasion but a lack of real end product. 6.5

de Jong - Did well in the main but a little overrun in the second half. 7

Barry - Solid but not quite enough offensively. 6.5

Zabaleta - A key extra man in the first half and replaced Garrido well at left back. 7

Bellamy - Threatening and had the better of Fabio. Could have done better with the shots he had. 7

Tevez - A largely quiet game as the lone striker, but conjoured up a superb finish. 7.5

Subs:

Ireland - Added creativity over the last half an hour. 6.5

Adebayor - Gave us a better shape late in the game but looked rusty. 6

Mancini on the United defeat

"I feel so sorry for the players, because they could not work any harder, but most of all I feel sorry for our fans. I wanted us to get to the final for them, and unfortunately that won't happen now."

"We have to learn from this defeat and improve. It's easy to improve when you win, but losing like this can teach a team things, so we must pick ourselves up. We have to work hard over the next few months, try to improve and get into the top four by the end of the season. That's possible with these players, and we still have players to come back from injury, or Kolo to come back from Africa. I'm pleased with what the players I could choose from gave me in these two games.

"We're still in the FA Cup and we have a chance to go to Wembley in that competition, which I would love to do for the fans."

>>Roberto Mancini.

United 3 - 1 City (United win 4-3 on aggregate)

The question of whether a one goal lead from the first leg was enough was one talked about in the lead up to the return leg at Old Trafford. Whilst many thought it would be, in the end - like our performance this evening - it proved not to be as we ultimately fell short.

Inevitably, if we were going to exit the competition tonight it would be in heartbreaking fashion, and with time ticking down towards an added thirty minutes we conceded a soft goal that sent us crashing out.

The first half had gone as well as Mancini could have hoped, almost perfectly in fact. Setting up similarly to the first leg, United were restricted and with both sides playing a little cagily it was no surprise the half ended scoreless. Playing on the counter, we had carved a couple of opportunities through the attacking trio of Bellamy, Tevez and Wright-Phillips and suggested we had enough to stretch United in the second half as the game went on.

It was not to be though as we conceded early into the second half which sparked the game into life and make it a compelling affair. Not only did it put the tie back on level terms, but it really handed the initiative and ascendency to United, who looked the more likely to to score again as they forced us on the back foot.

Perhaps just when the tie was looking beyond us though, Carlos Tevez conjoured up a goal out of nothing with an instinctive finish to seemingly send the game into the extra time.

It was not to be though, and after missing a golden opportunity earlier on, Rooney headed home unmarked from a Giggs cross to send United through and kill hopes of a Wembley visit. Mancini talked beforehand about concentration, and for each of the goals as a defence we perhaps guilty of not adhering to this as on reflection they were all preventable.

No doubt there will be plenty of plaudits coming our way, and that we are on the cusp of achieving big things, but that is no consolation at the moment.

We are still to take that next step. So near, yet so far.

Mancini - 'We must stay calm'

"We must stay calm," he asserted. "It's vital that we only think about the game. We have to think about our tactics, know what we are doing at corners and keep our concentration. You play better when you are calm.

I want us to start the game by playing high up the pitch and don't hold back like we did at home. We have to play to win from the first minute."

>>Roberto Mancini.

Interestingly, Mancini has gone with the same side as he did for the first leg.

United match thread

Time is a little short today so rather than a full preview I'll point you in the direction of the latest Vox Pops over at Norfstander that myself and some of the other City bloggers contributed to.

Also feel free to use the comments as a thread for tonights game.

Robinho transfer twist

Sky Sports are reporting that we have confirmed that Robinho is set to leave the club on a short term basis, but perhaps not to Santos as has been widely reported:

Santos had also stated they were confident of tying up a loan deal for the unsettled forward to return to his homeland.

However, Sao Paolo have now joined the chase for the Brazilian and the two clubs will battle it out to sign the former Real Madrid man on loan.

If, as it now appears inevitable, we do allow him to leave it looks as though we will still be on the hook for virtually half of Robinho's current salary according to this report in this mornings Times:

The forward is ready to take a pay cut of about £45,000 a week from the £150,000 that he secured when he became the most expensive player in this country after moving from Real Madrid 18 months ago. Santos are in talks with sponsors to help to fund about £35,000 of the remaining wage — three times more than their present top earner — with City expected to pick up the balance, about £70,000.

A big price to pay to rid ourselves of a player who could make an impact for us between now and the end of the season.

Robinho move edging closer?

Things appear to gathering pace with some subtance to the story other than comments attributed to Robinho, with ESPN quoting Santos press Arnaldo Hase:

"Tomorrow there will be a meeting that may be decisive for good or for bad," Hase told Reuters. "City would accept a six-month loan, Santos want to negotiate for six months or longer, but we will be happy if the deal is closed for six months.

"Under our proposal, Santos would pay Robinho's wages. The player already said to us he is open to earn less here than in Manchester. If everything works out well, Robinho could be a really cheap signing for Santos because we have a lot of partners interested in financially supporting Robinho's return to Santos."

Interestingly, Sky Sports are reporting that Santos are keener on an eighteen month loan as opposed to a six month loan which we are believed to be in favour of.

Additionally, the BBC carried a story this afternoon that also suggested we were in agreement of a move (although it didn't state a permanent or loan move) on the condition that we have first option on youngsters Paulo Henrique Ganso and Neymar.

We've yet to hear anything solid from the club (Mancini's evasive Scunthorpe post-match interview aside), but it seems a move is appearing increasingly likely.

Toure returns

Our captain is back following his exit in the African Cup of Nations, and there is the possibility that he could go straight into the side on Wednesday evening:

KOLO Toure will come back into contention for Wednesday's Carling Cup semi-final second leg against United at Old Trafford after Ivory Coast were knocked out of the African Nations Cup.

Blackpool striker Hameur Bouazza scored in injury time as Algeria went into the semi-finals with a 3-2 win in Cabinda.

Toure, who had a late goal ruled out for offside, may now come straight back into the Blues side with his experience bound to come into boss Roberto Mancini's thinking.

It is perhaps a measure of the impact that Dedryck Boyata has made in the main alongside Vincent Kompany and Micah Richards since coming into the side during Toure's absence that it is generated a real talking point as to whether he should retain his place even with the possible availability of Toure.

There is also of course the possibility of Micah Richards lining up centrally given the option of a fit again Nedum Onouha at right back (as we saw on Sunday).

My hunch though is that if Toure is ready to go fitness wise that Mancini opts to play him alongside Vincent Kompany as the central pairing.

Mancini on FA Cup victory

“We played well, especially at times in the second half, but it was a difficult afternoon for us. Scunthorpe made it hard and deserve some congratulations. We had expected a typical FA Cup tie, which is what we got. I told the player they would need to concentrate for the full game, they did and we got the result but it was not easy.

“Our young players did very well, they have shown me what they can do in training and I had no problem in picking them today. They have the right mentality and this was a big test for them. I’m pleased with them and pleased for them.”

>>Roberto Mancini.

Robinho to depart?

That is the suggestion being made in the wake of these comments made to a Brazilian radio station over the weekend:

"The whole board of directors [at City] has decided that the best thing is to loan me out," Robinho said. "It would be extraordinary to come back to Santos. Playing for Santos would help pave my way to the World Cup. It's my home, where I know everyone."

"The first thing to say is that it is a bad moment I am going through," Robinho told Rádio Bandeirantes in Brazil. "The managers are different here. They decide a system and want you to fit in and it doesn't matter if you're tall or short. The manager was honest with me. He told me I was just going to play every other game. I told him that wouldn't interest me because this is a World Cup year and I need to play."

The Guardian very much continues this theme in their match report, suggesting the game as a farewell for Robinho.

Post match, Roberto Mancini was very non-commital over Robinho's future, even when directly questioned, and perhaps played on the language barrier a little in evading a response as to whether the Brazilian was leaving.

With a week to go until the transfer window closes, it is looking a distinct possibility that he will depart (albeit on loan), although for me, there was enough today at Scunthorpe to suggest he can be factor for us over the remainder of the season, but the issue of how much playing time he will get with us could well be the deciding factor.

Scunthorpe ratings

Taylor - Made one superb save at 2-1. A confident display. 7

Onouha - Fitted in well on the right hand side. Took his goal nicely. 7

Boyata - Calm and composed display. Shows real promise. 7.5

Kompany - Solid and assured at the back leading a makeshift line-up. 7.5

Sylvinho - Adept both at the back and midfield. Stunning strike for his goal. 7

Ireland - Some nice touches and creativity on his return to the side. 7

de Jong - Typical display before being withdrawn at the half. 7

Ibrahim - Very impressive debut. Fit well into the side and plenty of confidence. 7.5

Petrov - Always dangerous and our most attacking outlet. 8

Benjani - Struggled to make an impact. 6

Robinho - Better as the game went on but looked out of touch. 6.5

Subs:

Cunningham - An early booking but played well. 6.5

Zabaleta - Filled in well when introduced. 6.5

Bellamy - Too late to mark. n/a

FA Cup 5th round draw

The full fifth round draw is as follows:

Wolves or Crystal Palace v Aston Villa
Manchester City v Stoke
Derby v Birmingham
Bolton v Tottenham or Leeds
Chelsea v Cardiff
Fulham v Notts County or Wigan
Reading v West Brom
Southampton v Portsmouth

With Arsenal crashing out earlier today, the draw really has opened up in this seasons competition. Avoiding Chelsea I suppose was the key, so a home tie against Stoke is good draw - they are no pushover but their success has in the main been at The Britannia Stadium.

Given we have also got over the mental block this season of exiting cup competitions at the quarter-final stage, there is every reason to feel we could go a long way in this seasons FA Cup.

Scunthorpe review

When the TV execs picked our game to be screened, they were clearly sniffing an upset. Multi-millionaires travel to plucky Championship side with the hope that an upset was in the making.

Sandwiched between two important games against United, the prospects of defeat were perhaps heightened given the shadow side that Roberto Mancini fielded. Given the magnitude of Wednesday's return leg at Old Trafford, I called for wholesale changes so backed the decision Mancini took.

As well as featuring players returning from injury (Onouha and Ireland), there were debuts for Ibrahim, Taylor and Cunningham, and of course a possible last appearance for Robinho, who was subject to swirling rumours about his short term future.

Crucially though, Mancini was astute enough to retain Nigel de Jong and Vincent Kompany - two key personalities and influences on the side and possibly without those two towers, we could have come unstuck. As it was, apart from brief periods of pressure from our opponents, we were in control of the game.

With the creative and attack minded players in the side were always capable of carving out chances, and this proved the case but we were also thankful for two wonderful individual efforts for Martin Petrov and perhaps more surprisingly, Sylvinho who put us two goals ahead (and all but killed the game) with a fantastic long range strike.

As a whole, the day went perfectly for Mancini. Comfortable progression to round five (with a favourable draw), rest for those players who needed it ahead of Wednesday, action for fringe and returning players and a chance for some promising players to get some exposure and experience.

A job well done then. Now for Wednesday.

Scunthorpe preview

The focus on the two Carling Cup games against United has pushed our game at Scunthorpe somewhat off the radar, but we go out tomorrow with a very real chance to continue our form this season in cup competitions and progress through to the last sixteen of the FA Cup.

Whilst away ties to lower league opposition are always handed the 'tricky tie' tag, it is a game we should be expecting to win - regardless of the side that we put out.

Of course, this is the second time this season we have come up against Scunthorpe having triumphed convincingly by a 5-1 scoreline in the early rounds of the Carling Cup.

It will be interesting to see precisely what side Roberto Mancini does field. He has been known to surprise with his line-ups but it appears as though it will be a mix and match side judging by these comments:

"We will mix it again because I have three or four players who are very tired and I want them to be on the bench. I want to play a few young players again from the start.

Gareth and Nigel have played a lot recently, so we’ll recall Stephen for Sunday, probably not for the whole game. We want to win, it will be difficult for us, they will be strong at home but we will put a good team out and we are looking to win. We’ll have a strong bench and they will be ready if we need them."

Not to disrespect the FA Cup in any way, but given the importance and scale of the second leg next Wednesday, my preference would be for wholesale changes right throughout the side with as few players who are needed next week as possible - particularly with United having to field a strong side in their league game against Hull.

It doesn't appear as though Mancini will go quite as far as that, but he has shown faith in the fringe and younger players, and expect that to continue. Pleasing too that Stephen Ireland is set to return to the line up following his injury problems of late.

We really should have too much for Scunthorpe and we'll continue our momentum with a 2-0 victory.

The days best City links 01/23/2010

• Manchester City's hopes of Mathieu Flamini loan signing fade | Football | guardian.co.uk

  tags: City

• Nowhere man finds a home at City - Manchester City - Football - Sport - Manchester Evening News

  tags: City

• Manchester City tempt West Ham with £15m offer for Valon Behrami - Telegraph

  tags: City

• Battle for Chiellini - Manchester United - Football - Sport - Manchester Evening News

  tags: City

• BBC Sport - Football - Manchester City will be world's best club - Garry Cook

  tags: City

• Manchester City risk FA Cup giant killing by one of their own at Scunthorpe - Telegraph

  tags: City

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

Weiss joins Bolton on loan

As per the MEN:

MANCHESTER City winger Vladimir Weiss has joined Bolton on loan until the end of the season.

The young Slovakian has made four appearances for the Blues this season and scored in City's 3-0 win over Arsenal in the Carling Cup.

He has now been sent to Bolton in a bid to gain more first-team experience.

And now confirmed on the official site.

I posted a week or so about the merits of Weiss being loaned out and the question is whether his long term development will be better suited by remaining with us, training and being around the first team squad and getting some minutes on occasion, or whether regular (we assume) football at Bolton for half a season will be the 'finishing school' for him to come back and be ready to step in for 2010/11.

As prodiguous a talent Weiss is, it is still a big call from Owen Coyle, newly installed as Bolton boss and in the thick of a relegation battle, to bring in a young, untested player at Premier League level. It is perhaps an indication of his intent as to the style of football he wants to play - something that is an important consideration in the decision where Weiss ended up.

It is also a World Cup year of course, and Weiss is very much expected to be part of Slovakia's squad so the need to be playing regularly ahead of the tournament would also have been a factor.

The only surprise for me is that the deal is set up now, when there was every likelihood Weiss would have played on Sunday at Scunthorpe. Perhaps an indication as to the side Roberto Mancini is looking to put out?

Tevez hits out

I'm sure GMP will be thankful of these comments:

“Neville is an idiot and a boot-licker,” said the Argentine international. “He said I was not worth £25 million just to stay in the manager’s good books.

“I do not know why he is saying bad things about me. I have never had a problem with him. My celebrations for both goals were directed at him. They were not at Ferguson, and they were not at the fans. They were at Neville. I only speak on the pitch."

Jo joins Galatasary

Jô has joined Galatasary on loan until the end of this season from Manchester City.

The Brazilian forward had been on a season's loan at Everton but David Moyes agreed to release him after being disappointed by both his form and his discipline. Jô was recently suspended after making an unauthorised trip to Brazil.

The Turkish club's sporting director, Haldun Ustunel, came to England to conclude a deal for a player who has failed to make a consistent impact since join City from CSKA Moscow for £19m in 2008.

>>guardian.co.uk

And with that surely goes any hope Jo may have had of a career in the Premier League.

Farmed out on loan to Everton by Mark Hughes last year - either banished out of sight or to help him try and adapt the rigours of the Premier League by getting regularly depending on your perspective - he performed adequately over the second half of last season, but hasn't been able to match that form during 2009/10.

Add to that his recent indiscretion when he went AWOL over the Christmas period, and David Moyes (perhaps like Mark Hughes before him) got rid at the first opportunity.

I don't see a way back for him with us, and I'd imagine potential Premier League suitors will hardly be enamoured with him now either (particularly given his wage levels) so the hope is that a European side like Galatasary - who have the capacity to offer a big wage deal - will take him off our hands this summer.

It will likely take writing off virtually the whole of the £19 million fee though, and surely making him the biggest transfer mistake we have ever made.

Mancini - 'I need players'

That is the message from Roberto Mancini this morning from the comments in Gazzetto dello Sport that have been widely picked up here in the UK:

"I need players," Mancini was quoted as saying in Gazzetta dello Sport. "Perhaps Real Madrid will give me Gago, maybe Milan [will give me] Flamini..."

The link with Flamini surfaced earlier this week of course, but the Gago link is a new one. The benefits of adding Flamini to the squad are obvious, with his versatility being a key asset and the fact that the midfield is the one area that has been really stretched and overworked so far this season. The Gago one perhaps less so though. I don't particularly know much about the player so will defer to JPB on this.

The links with both Flamini and Gago have also been reported by the MEN (Flamini and Gago), with the Flamini link looking quite solid (it even suggests he could arrive in time for next weeks second leg against United).

The most obvious question is quite where either (or both) players will fit in. Whilst de Jong and Barry have been virtual ever presents, the central midfield area will have a very congested look with more additions given Stephen Ireland and Patrick Vieira's imminent return.

I took a look at this after the arrival of Patrick Vieira, so throw one or two more into the mix and Mancini will have some very frustrated players on his hands and does either potential arrival really improve the options available to Mancini?

Villa progress to the final

Aston Villa will be our opponents should we progress through in the second leg next week.

Seems like it was some game earlier this evening.

Mutu interest reported

Story of the day sees us linked with Fiorentina's Adrian Mutu:

"I will be in Italy for the final week of the transfer market," the player's agent, Giovanni Becali, said. "There are several clubs interested in Mutu, clubs that would definitely allow him to increase his wages. There are clubs keen on the player from Russia, Turkey but especially England.

"[Roberto] Mancini strongly wants him at Manchester City and said that he would be an ideal player for his team. It remains to be seen if Fiorentina will be willing to talk about a possible transfer."

I'm certainly sceptical of this one. It sounds more to do with an agent doing the rounds and attempting to drum up interest in the player than any real interest in him.

To his credit, Mutu has got his career back on track after being sacked by Chelsea, first with Juventus and for the past couple of seasons at Fiorentina. His time at Chelsea was frankly a disaster, but his record in Serie A is a good one.

That said, I don't quite see a place for him in our side given the players currently on the books - and for me he is not a huge upgrade on Valeri Bojinov.

There are certainly better players, and more prescient areas to focus on.

Player reaction to the win, and looking ahead to the second leg

Plenty of positive vibes in the aftermath of yesterday's victory:

Firstly Shaun Wright-Phillips:

“Carlos Tevez was fantastic again for us, he has been unbelieveable all season. His energy is superb but everyone played their part in what was a memorable win and that’s a few we have had over United in recent seasons.

“We know that the job is only half done but we know too that we will get all the backing we need next week. If there are only a thousand of our fans there they will make themselves heard so goodness knows what it will be like with 10,000! But we have to make sure we give them something to sing and shout about.”

Gareth Barry:

"We knew, as individuals, we were all going to have to dig deep. Shay has performed well as well so we're delighted with the tie.

"It's still in the balance, it's half-time obviously, and we expect a tough game at Old Trafford. They're going to push on and give all they can, and we're going to expect a battle again."

On the derby atmosphere, Barry added: "It's my first one here and the noise was tremendous at times and hopefully we can give them something to shout about in the second game."

Vincent Kompany:

“I’m not too bad with my feet!” he laughed. “It was good to set up a goal, but if it was anyone I’m very glad that it was Carlos who scored it. It gives us the opportunity for the second leg to go to Old Trafford with a good result behind us. I don’t think we are the kind of team to give away a lot so it’s going to be interesting!

“Carlos’ footballing quality is there for everyone to see but his mentality on the pitch is amazing, as good as you could wish for from a team mate. That makes more of a difference than him being a terrific player, it’s the fact that he belongs to that family and he feels he’s part of it. We’re all happy for him that he is doing so well.”

And finally, Pablo Zabaleta:

"We know that it will be difficult at United, but we have a chance. Old Trafford is a great stadium, and there will be a lot of pressure on us, but we have players with strong character.

"We needed to give our fans a great game. I think everyone is happy. Beating United in the derby is real satisfaction, but the tie isn't over. We need to play 90 minutes more to get to the final."

The immediate aftermath of the game has seen many of the blogs and forums still cautious and guarded about our chances of progressing through to the Wembley.

I must say though that I am feeling confident at this point in time. That may ebb away the nearer we get to next Wednesday but I do believe that we will get through to the final.

As I wrote post-match, a one goal lead is a slender one, but it is a significant one. Roberto Mancini has shown enough tactical acumen thus far to instill belief in me that we are capable of executing a game plan that can not only frustrate United, but also get the better of them on the night.

Time will tell of course, but last night we really did take a huge stride forward.

Mancini on the United victory

"Now I would say we have a 51% chance."

"After 1-0 it was important that we recover and win - the players did very well after 15 minutes, at the start we were nervous. But we know the second leg will be difficult.

"I am very happy for Carlos, because he is ex-United and scored two. Sometimes you must defend, especially playing against a strong team like United, and Shay Given had a fantastic night.

"I didn't see the penalty incident from the bench, it was too far away - but I watched Carlos take it and score! It was important that we scored before half time.

"This was my first derby, but I wasn't nervous. It was most important to win my first derby, and I want to win my second derby as well if possible!"

>>Roberto Mancini.

United ratings

Given - Some really smart saves and blocks in the final frantic minutes. 8

Richards - Back out to right back and looked uncomfortable at times. 6

Kompany - A giant in the centre of defence. Put his body on the line. 8

Boyata - Not called upon to do a great deal, but didn't put a foot wrong. 6

Garrido - Passing was terrible early on but stuck to the task well. 6

Wright-Phillips - More effective when moved centrally in the second-half. Always a threat. 7

de Jong - Put the Everton nightmare behind him. At his tigerish best. 7

Barry - Another who returned to form. Excellent distribution. 7

Zabaleta - Fulfilled a number of roles but never got to grips with the game. 5

Bellamy - Struggled centrally but a good threat when moved to the left. 7

Tevez - Worked hard and got his reward, and the headlines. 8

Subs:

Onouha - A great goal-line clearance from Owen. 7

Benjani - Never got into the game when we needed it most. 5

Sylvinho - Didn't have much time but was a calming influence. 6

City 2 - 1 United

I thought at the half-way stage of the tie that both sides would be still be in with a great chance of progressing through at Old Trafford next week.

And so it proved in an engaging contest that given the two-legged format lacked a little of the urgency and bite normally associated with Derby contests. At times we were good, at other points were very bad yet if Roberto Mancini can continue of habit of finding wins in this vein he may well have a job for some time.

It was a victory that didn't appear likely in the early stages as a poor opening . It was as if Roberto Mancini had delivered his team talk in Italian such was the unsettled and confused performance as the side appeared completely befuddled by their instructions. Mancini was looking to deny United space, playing Zabaleta and Wright-Phillips almost as auxillary full-backs, whilst de Jong and Barry rarely ventured forward. The idea was to sit back and deny United and at times we were awfully deep which isolated Tevez and Bellamy. This meant possession was difficult to retain and we found it difficult to create.

The danger of going a goal behind was that such was our ineffectiveness (how many passes went astray?) we ran the risk of falling futher behind. However, slowly but surely we asserted ourselves in the tie as the side looked to get to grips with the counter-attacking instructions. Switching Bellamy to the left from his starting central position also opened up our play and we began to create.

There was no real obvious chances carved by either side, but on the stroke of half-time we were handed an opportunity when Bellamy had his shirt pulled in a replay of Micah Richards's infringement on Saturday. Once the protests had disseminated, Carlos Tevez stepped up and converted with aplomb.

It was interesting to watch Mancini from my vantage point today (3rd tier of the Colin Bell Stand). Always on the move, full of pent up energy as he barked out instructions. The number of changes to the formation he made was telling, some minor adjustments, some more obvious. The end result though was that most worked and perhaps he just might be "blessed with fortune" after all.

The decision to move Wright-Phillips in the second half to a more central position saw us get a grip of the game in the second half and after a good spell of pressure took the lead. An intelligent header from Zabaleta lead to good work from Kompany who hooked the ball across for Tevez to score his second.

We had chances to add to our lead, Wright-Phillips particularly being unlucky with Van der Sar making a smart save and United, for all their possession, were unable to create opportunities. Wayne Rooney was looking more frustrated and for those who don't think they miss Cristiano Ronaldo, think again.

Mancini added defensive reinforcements to try and protect the lead, but United were not finished. The final fifteen minutes saw some frantic, and at times desperate, defending as United sensed an equaliser. Shay Given proved his value with two or three smart blocks, Vincent Kompany was immovable in the centre of defence and the final whistle brought an outpouring of relief as the tension mounted.

If it were not for United's late spell of pressure when they finally created chances we would have been good value for the win. As it was, it was an even contest over the course of the game, but importantly we hold the lead and whilst it is only a solitary goal the significance of it at the moment feels far greater.

Mixed reports over Flamini

A story that came out of nowhere this morning with Sky Sports going with a report that Mathieu Flamini was poised to sign a loan deal until the end of the season:

Sky Sports News understands AC Milan's Mathieu Flamini is set to move to Manchester City in a loan deal until the end of the season.

Roberto Mancini is to raid Italy for a second time since taking over at Eastlands, with an approach for Flamini at the top of his agenda.

Not a great deal of substance there I'm sure you'd agree, and the MEN subsequently reports is current club, Milan, as dismissing the notion of a move:

AC Milan have not heard from Manchester City regarding French midfielder Mathieu Flamini. Flamini has been strongly linked with a loan move to the Premier League club in the January transfer window.

We have heard rumours regarding possible interest from Manchester City for Flamini," AC Milan sporting director Ariedo Braida said. "But for the time being, there has been no official offer, interest or talks between AC Milan and Manchester City.

Flamini is an AC Milan player."

I'm sure Flamini would be a useful acquisition in terms of providing depth and cover in a number of positions, but I'm not convinced he would be a good longer term signing.

I'm not convinced either that Flamini would be overly keen on a move that in effect would be a like for like situation.

United preview

The confidence and brashness that was felt heading into tomorrow's game has no doubt been checked a little since the weekend - obviously because of contrasting results for ourselves and United, but also I'm sure because derbies rarely illicit a feeling of over-confidence as kick-off approaches.

There was much debate after the postponement as to whether the initial game being called off worked in our favour. Reaction seemed to be overwhelmingly that it did, but the fact we go into the game following such a miserable performance and with the injury problems not a great deal better, the delaying of the first leg has probably made little difference all things considered.

Make no mistake, this is a huge week for us. Many strides have taken on and off the field since the ADUG takeover but until we can land a trophy a big shadow will continue to loom. You do sense the anticipation building though and winning the Carling Cup would be a real starting point for the ADUG era and the ambitions they have.

Team wise, there isn't a huge amount of manouevering Mancini can do. Stephen Ireland will likely be on the bench but no more, Patrick Vieira is not considered fit enough yet whilst Roque Santa Cruz has added to the problems. Defensive duo Joleon Lescott and Wayne Bridge are also still out of the equation but Nedum Onouha could be pushing for a return.

It would be a big surprise if Mancini didn't opt for a 4-4-2, with the only changes from Saturday being Benjani in for Santa Cruz to provide a target for Tevez to work off, and probably Shaun Wright-Phillips in for either Craig Bellamy or Martin Petrov depending on the formers fitness after playing the full ninety minutes. Mancini may hold Wright-Phillips back, but he has always looked a threat against United with his direct style. In addition he has a good goal return.

Less certain is United's line-up. With the defeat against Leeds fading in the memory, Alex Ferguson may be less inclined to wield the axe on the fringe players who started in the FA Cup defeat. Formation wise will be interesting to see how the start and they will possibly go with two wide players backed up by attacking full-backs.

Not being a one-off tie could have some impact though, with both managers aware that the return leg at Old Trafford is only a week away. I expect a close game, and when the full-time whistle sounds it would be a huge surprise if either side was out of the tie at the half-way point.

Prediction? We will take a narrow lead to Old Trafford with a 1-0 victory.

Vieira still 'ten days away'

“Patrick is not fit yet, but I think it is better for us and for him to go when he is ready. I think it will be one week or 10 days. It’s better that we don’t risk him, though, because we want Patrick to play until the end of the season

“When Patrick comes back and plays I want him to play for 20 games. That’s what is important for us.”

>>Roberto Mancini talking about Patrick Vieira.

There goes the expectation of an FA Cup debut this weekend.

The hope is that it is only a minor injury so he can soon take some of the burden off the current midfield pairing. Not good news though if there is any credence to this story.

Santa Cruz sidelined for a month

I was expecting worse news in all honesty:

MANCHESTER City boss Roberto Mancini expects Roque Santa Cruz to be sidelined for a month with his latest calf injury.

The Paraguayan lasted just four minutes of his comeback at Everton on Saturday before going down with the same problem that caused him to miss three games over the Christmas period.

Although Mancini does not believe Santa Cruz will need an operation, despite early indications to the contrary the City chief did confirm the £18million summer arrival from Blackburn will be out of action for a month.

A big setback as I thought his brief cameo when he came on against Blackburn was a positive one and that he would finally get a run of games under his belt.

What it does mean - and I never thought I would be writing this - is that on the evidence of Saturday, as Carlos Tevez functions far better playing alongside a bigger target rather than leading the line, is that a recall for Benjani is a must for the semi-final.

Ireland ready to return

Jack has a post up today looking at the work load our primary midfielders - Nigel de Jong and Gareth Barry - have faced so far this season, so it is good news that it is reported that Stephen Ireland is set to be on the bench tomorrow evening:

STEPHEN Ireland will return to the Manchester City bench for the Carling Cup semi-final with Manchester United at Eastlands.

Ireland has missed three games after picking up a hamstring injury at Wolves, but Roberto Mancini will have the midfielder amongst his substitutes as City look to establish a first-leg lead.

I would be surprised if Ireland saw any action tomorrow, and it may only be if we need to try and conjour something up late on but I would expect him to see some significant action on Sunday at Scunthorpe when de Jong and Barry will in all likelihood be sat with their feet up.

Clayton continues Carlisle loan

Carlisle United have completed the re-signing of Manchester City midfielder Adam Clayton until the end of the season.

The 21-year-old first moved to Brunton Park in November, making 11 outings for the Blues including the 3-1 FA Cup defeat at Everton earlier this month.

>>Sky Sports.

Norfstander has more on how his loan spell has worked out to date.

Everton ratings

Given - Questions could be asked about the free-kick but made a couple of decent saves. 6

Zabaleta - Another needless foul led to a goal, and exposed on occasion. 5

Garrido - Defensively adequate but offered little in support of the attack. 6

Kompany - Held firm against a lively Everton attack. 6

Richards - Poor decision to needlessly give away the penalty. 5

de Jong - Ineffecitve and dominated by Fellaini throughout. 4

Barry - Anonymous when he needed to step up. 4

Petrov - Was ineffective on the right and little end product. 4

Bellamy - Always willing but created little. 5

Tevez - Appeared troubled by an early injury and unable to link up. 5

Santa Cruz - Off injured as soon as the game began. n/a

Subs:

Robinho - Will get most of the flak, but wasn't alone in his inept showing. 4

Wright-Phillips - Provided pace and could be an option for Tuesday. 6

Benjani - Struggled to make an impact. 5

Everton thoughts

The honeymoon period for Roberto Mancini was going to end sometime, but perhaps no-one imagined that when it did, the bubble was going to burst in such fashion.

With Liverpool and Tottenham dropping points earlier in the day, we were provided an opportunity to put daylight between ourselves and the teams immediately below us.

Instead we turned in a performance every bit as poor as some of the recent dark away days.

From the moment Roque Santa Cruz's wretched run of injuries continued with him being replaced barely five minutes into the game, things went badly wrong.

In possession we were harried by Everton at every opportunity, meaning we couldn't retain the ball for long enough spells to generate a meaningful attack. The midfield duo of Barry and de Jong in particular were overran by an Everton midfield superbly led the excellent Felliani.

The irony is that for as poor as our all-round performance was in the face of an impressive Everton side, it was two individual mistakes that cost us the goals. Firstly Pablo Zabaleta, for whom the word wreckless must have no meaning conceded another needless free-kick in a dangerous position. You could sense the collective groan from City fans far and wide when Steven Pienaar stepped up, and to his credit, perfectly placed it over the wall and beyond Shay Given. Questions perhaps though could be asked as to why de Jong and Bellamy were figures in the wall that was lined up.

Despite being comfortably second best for the majority of the first half, as time ticked down a 1-0 scoreline was not irretrievable but on the stroke of the whistle, it was Micah Richards turn for an abberation as he attempted to relieve Louis Saha of his shirt. It was neither subtle or momentary, and despite the vociferous and well attended protest, there was no argument about the decision.

At 2-0, there was little hope of a mounting a comeback and giving the ball away straight from the second half kick off signalled what was to come. It was only a surprise that Everton didn't further add to the scoreline. The introduction of Benjani for Petrov altered little, and the half was perhaps only noteworthy for the substitution of Robinho - himself of course an early substitute. There is probably no more damning indictement than a substitute himself being taken off, and for as inept as Robinho was, there could have been no complaints from any player had they seen their number on the board.

Robinho it was though, and it was a move seized upon by commentators, media and fans alike. The Brazilian has been synonomous with some of our dark days on the road, and for many I'm sure, a new low was reached. Whilst Robinho needs games, it is difficult to see a road back for him at the moment.

Mancini though was supportive of him in his post-match comments and was keener to pay tribute to Everton than to lambast the performance of his own side.

I'm sure though that when he looks again and reflects on the performance he will have learnt some important lessons about his side.

Everton preview

A trip to Goodison Park is a game that has been labelled by some as Roberto Mancini's first 'real test', following a run of games thought of as easing the Italian into the role.

Fixtures against Everton are not ones we have yielded a great amount of success from in recent times, and tomorrow's game is played with Tuesday's sem-final looming large. Everton's formula is no huge secret, and despite the pace and creativity we possess it will be difficult to break a side as obdurate as Everton are. One plus point since Mancini has taken over is we look far more secure defending set pieces, and for once the hope is that we don't allow Tim Cahill the freedom of Merseyside on corners and free-kicks as we have frustratingly done so often on previous meetings.

The injury crisis that greeted Mancini's arrival appears to be subsiding a little, with Shaun Wright-Phillips, Nedum Onouha and Roque Santa Cruz back in contention for selection, although Stephen Ireland and Joleon Lescott are still to return. With the importance of both this game in terms of league position and Tuesday's semi-final in the hunt for a trophy, I don't see Mancini risking anyone who is less than 100% - with the FA Cup tie at Scunthorpe a likely fixture for those coming back.

Whilst this game is ideally suited for Craig Bellamy, you have to wonder if he starts given his inability to play twice in quick succession and I'm sure Mancini's preference would be to field him on Tuesday. If Bellamy does drop to the bench, it has been speculated that Robinho could start but (fitness permitting) I think Wright-Phillips comes in.

Everton too have a number of players returning to fitness following a horrendous spell of injuries largely repsonsible for their struggles this season. They have in the main continued to grind out results though, and are unbeaten in their last five games (although four have been drawn) and were perhaps unlucky to come away from The Emirates last week with only a point.

Historically, a draw at Everton would be seen as satisfactory and given that Tuesday is on the horizon, most I'm sure would be happy with that return but some momentum has been built under Mancini. The side looks purposeful and confident and we look to be capable of scoring goals, and I think we have too much for Everton and come away with a 2-1 win.

Game notes:

• The last three league meetings between Everton and Manchester City have ended in wins for the away side.
• Man City's 2-1 win over Everton last season was their first at Goodison Park since October 1992, a run of 10 matches.
• Everton have scored 32% of their goals in the last 15 minutes of matches this season, a league high.
• The Toffees' victory over Burnley in their last home game ended a run of six games at Goodison Park without a win or a clean sheet for David Moyes's side.
• Man City have just two points more after 20 games this season than they did in 2007/08 when they finished in ninth position.City have lost just two away matches this season, the fewest in the league along with Tottenham Hotspur.

Weiss to be loaned out?

There are strong reports today that Vladimir Weiss could be set to leave the club for the short term, with Roberto Mancini confirming a loan move could be forthcoming:

"It is possible Vladimir will go somewhere on loan," said Mancini. "He is a good young player who is going to be important to this club in the future.

"But he needs to play. We have not decided where though. That will be Vladimir's choice."

I'm not overly convinced the idea of Weiss departing is necessarily a good one. He has progressed so much in the past 12-18 months that he is now a feature on the bench, and pushing hard for a first team spot. Clearly he is ready to make the step up, and only the ridiculous competition for attacking places has prevented him playing more often than he is. Just think how much he would have played by now if this was 2005.

The idea of a loan therefore may not be ideal for him given that he doesn't particularly need a spell at 'finishing school' before coming back a first team regular.

You also have to be careful with a loan to ensure he goes to the right club and environment. He will obviously be away from Mancini and the training regime he is implementing, which, given the squad we have must do wonders for the younger players. If he does go out on loan, there is no way he drops down outside the Premier League, and will his development be best served going to a side battling and scrapping to avoid the drop?

A thought on where he may land if he does go? With a new manager who is known for trying to play football, Bolton may not be too wide of the mark.