Mancini backs Vieira to blunt Spurs

ROBERTO MANCINI hopes another age-defying performance from Patrick Vieira against the French midfielder’s old foes Tottenham can steer Manchester City towards Champions League qualification.

Vieira rolled back the years against Aston Villa in a dominant display as City’s holding midfielder and Mancini believes the 33-year-old, who arrived in January looking short of fitness, can still earn a place in France’s World Cup squad.

Wednesday night’s match against Tottenham could prove to be a decider for fourth spot in the Premier League, though both sides have a final match to play after that.

Mancini believes a victory over Spurs would be extra special for City’s ex-Gunner Vieira, Kolo Toure and Emmanuel Adebayor.

“Tottenham beat Arsenal three weeks ago and so I hope that Patrick, Kolo and Emmanuel can beat Tottenham in their own ‘derby’,” said Mancini.

“I’m happy for Patrick, he was fantastic against Aston Villa and he has great experience.

“He had a lot of problems when he arrived here, he’s a tall player and needs to play and work every day.

“Now I think he has time to make the World Cup, and I hope he does.

“I asked him to play in a certain position, don’t run forward, just stay there and think, and he played very well.”