Samaras vows to woo Sven

Georgios Samaras is determined to win over Manchester City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson.

The Greek forward seemed destined for the Eastlands exit door last month after being told by Eriksson his first-team chances would be strictly limited this term.

Despite confirmed interest from Middlesbrough and clubs in Portugal and Spain, Samaras decided to stay with City and battle for a regular place.

Overlooked throughout the campaign so far, the £6million man was finally handed his chance in Tuesday’s Carling Cup tie against Norwich.

And the former Heerenveen man responded in the best manner possible, rifling home the late winner which swept City into the last 16.

With Valeri Bojinov injured and £8.8million forward Rolando Bianchi taking time to adjust to Barclays Premier League life, Samaras is emerging as Emile Mpenza’s major rival for the lone striking berth Eriksson has decided to use during the early weeks of the campaign.

And, while he admits others may have quit given the Swede’s downbeat pre-season message, Samaras still feels he can prove himself to be a useful member of the City squad.

“Maybe someone else would have quit but I believe in myself,” Samaras told the Manchester Evening News.

“My first thought was to stay at City and fight for my position.

“I believe I can make a new start, be part of this team and be part of all the changes that happened this summer.”

At least Eriksson handed Samaras the striking spot he preferred this week.

In the latter stages of Stuart Pearce’s reign, the Greek was used mainly on the left-hand side of midfield, so maybe it is no surprise he struggled to have any impact.

“I am not a left-midfielder, I am a striker and I like to play there,” said Samaras, who will hope to retain his place for Saturday’s encounter with Newcastle.

“We are playing a different style to last year, which is better for me.

“We are playing more football, more of a passing game and more to feet, like the game I learned in Holland.”