Elano set for place on bench

Manchester City midfielder Elano may find himself on the bench as the high-flying Blues look to heap more pressure on Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce.

After a brilliant first few months at Eastlands, Elano’s form has dipped in recent weeks and City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson could be tempted to leave the Brazilian on the bench at St James’ Park, with fellow countryman Geovanni among the potential replacements.