Fourth place is the only goal for Mancini

ROBERTO MANCINI insists he would be happy with a fourth-placed finish for Manchester City this season.

The Blues boss has again been forced onto the defensive over his tactics in the dismal derby draw with Manchester United on Wednesday.

Mancini has largely been held responsible for the tepid goalless stalemate, and bringing what are perceived to be tactics straight out of Serie A into the Premier League.

Yet Mancini views the outcome as a point gained rather than two lost. While most of his critics are judging City’s performances by the money they have spent and the sight of Chelsea disappearing over the horizon as champions-elect, Mancini’s sights are not quite so high.

Having been set a pre-season target of securing Champions League combat next term, the current table, which has City in fourth, four points ahead of next best Newcastle, suits the Italian just fine.

“We are in a good position,” said Mancini, whose side are expected to claim three points with the visit of Birmingham today.

“If the Premier League finished tomorrow I would be happy. Our target is to get to the Champions League. But targets can change.

“It is important for us to stay at the top until January because the league can change after that, when the Champions League starts again. Then, maybe Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United will have their focus on this competition.”