Mancini bemoans City injury woe

HOW many managers must have chuckled to hear Roberto Mancini lamenting his injury problems and pleading for time after seeing his Manchester City side’s title prospects exposed for what they are?

There must also be supporters who are surprised to see the Italian trying to chase games against packed defences with two holding midfielders and then admit he has to find a way of breaking down stubborn opposition.

Whether Mancini likes it or not, what has happened at Eastlands in the last two years has led to City being considered title challengers and time is something he does not have.