City target Europe

Manchester City chief executive Alistair Mackintosh believes a UEFA Cup spot is a possibility next season under the new regime.

Mackintosh claims there is a new wave of optimism at Eastlands now Sven-Goran Eriksson has taken over as manager with Thaksin Shinawatra the new chairman.

Eriksson has drafted in striker Ronaldo Bianchi from Reggina for £8.8m and midfielder Gelson Fernandes from Sion for about £2m.

Commenting on City’s UEFA Cup prospects, Mackintosh told Radio Manchester: “It is very realistic.

“Sven-Goran Eriksson and Dr Thaksin have come here to compete in the Premier League and that means the top half of the table.

“We have a great opportunity. We have a great stadium, a great academy set-up, great manager and great new owner. The future looks very bright.”