Lech Poznań 3 – 1 MAN CITY – PLAYER RATINGS

Given - Looked understandably rusty in only his second start of the season, failing to supply our shaky defence with any confidence. Couldn’t have done much with any of the goals, but will expect to return to the bench for the WBA game - 6

Richards - I now feel a bit stupid for heaping praise on him after the Arsenal game, as it seems his performance then was a one-off. Since that defeat, where he was outstanding, he has reverted to his old self, displaying no positional awareness and a general naivety - 5.5

Boyata – The red card he received against Arsenal has perhaps dented his confidence more than we expected. His relative inexperience shone through yesterday, as he didn’t display any authority. He should have scored with a header in the first half, before he was partially at fault for Poznan’s second goal. An extended break from the first team may be needed - 5

Lescott - In the midst of a heavily weakened defence, I thought that Joleon actually emerged with his reputation intact. He was assertive, winning the aerial battles with ease and looked free of the jittery defending he has been plagued with recently - 7

Bridge - I do admire Bridge’s agent. Securing the world’s worst left back with a contract worth £90,000 a week. Utterly dire, can’t pass, can’t tackle, can’t use right foot. After Kolarov, Boateng, Zabaleta and Lescott, he’s probably our fifth choice left-back. If Bridge can play for England, so can I- 3

SWP - Another who failed to grasp their chance, and that’s putting it generously. Looks lost on the left-wing, which I can comprehend, but he never took on his man, never displayed his pace, passion or commitment. Doubtful that he will feature regularly for the first team again - 4

Vieira - Paddy V has been our standout performer in this competition so far, but his antiquity showed up in this game. His passing, so often his forte, was astray, whilst he, along with Zabaleta, was bypassed far too easily. Useful for the odd cameo appearance but a career as a coach or manager beckons - 5.5

Zabaleta - Mancini hoped that his captain for the night could provide the bite that has been missing in de Jong’s absence, but Pablo struggled to stamp his authority on the game. Passing was neat and tidy, but never incisive, whilst he was caught out of position far too often - 6

Milner - In a slightly more advanced role, Milner tried to be influential, but although he worked hard, one never felt that he was going to create many chances. Was shifted out to the left-wing in the second half and put over a couple of threatening crosses but generally listless - 6

A. Johnson - Just as I predicted, Johnson never impressed when handed a start. Yes, he’s great coming off the bench for twenty minutes when defences are tiring, but whenever he starts, he fails to take the opportunity. Like Milner, supplied a couple of dangerous crosses, but needs to be involved more - 6.5

Adebayor - Drifts from the sublime to the ridiculous with such ease. Scored again which was pleasing to see, but needs to learn how to hold the ball up and bring others into play. Worked harder than usual, but must retain possession better - 6.5

Subs

Silva – As is often the case with the Spaniard, he livens up the rest of the team. He oozes control and confidence, and unlike Adebayor, he knows how to bring others into play. Had one decent effort when he hit the crossbar, but should have scored in the last couple of minutes when he sliced over - 7

Kolarov – Very pleasing to see him return and he settled in effortlessly. Looked controlled in possession and had one powerful long-range shot. Give him time, and he will be brilliant - 7

Kompany – I’m sure Vincent enjoyed his run out in midfield, bringing back memories of his first season at the Blues, but he didn’t have a great deal of time to make an impact - 6