Pearce prepared to free fringe players

Manchester City manager Stuart Pearce is looking to generate funds in the transfer window by offloading some fringe players.

Pearce wants his side to progress in the second half of the season and believes the only way he can do that is by bringing in fresh blood.

He said: “We need quality if we can, not numbers really. I have spoken to the chairman (John Wardle) a number of times about funds.

“We know full well there is not a great deal of finance around. Maybe there is the possibility of bringing in one or two players on loan. I do not want to sell good players but perhaps some fringe players to bring in some cash.”

City are looking to progress in the FA Cup tomorrow when they face Championship side Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough.

Pearce accepts his style is different to the expansive football played under previous manager Kevin Keegan.

With City aiming for a fourth successive win, the former England defender can afford to be bullish about the way he sets up his teams.

Pearce said: “Some may say it was more enjoyable watching Kevin’s sides but what you have to do is be defensively sound. It is the main priority.

“Winning 1-0 away from home was always a fantastic result for me. We are looking for a combination of things – being nice and tight defensively but also having a cutting edge.”

Pearce has been pleased with his side’s recent run but knows it will tough against in-form Wednesday.

He said: “It is great credit to the players the way we bounced back after two defeats. We have tinkered with the shape of the side and cut out the mistakes, which was important.

“We just have to carry on the good work against Wednesday and it should be a great occasion. The FA Cup is something to get excited about and has never lost its glamour in my eyes.

“We are taking 5,000 supporters to the game – that just shows what the competition means to people.”