MAN CITY v Birmingham: The PREVIEW – City’s Probable Team
20 Sep
The Carling Cup. Last on the list of priorities this season, but a trophy worth winning nonetheless. It may be derided by many and we succumbed meekly last season to West Brom, but it’s a chance to win more silverware and we shouldn’t turn down that prospect.
We have seen how the victory in the FA Cup final has altered the mindset and attitude of the players. Any success will boost confidence and create a winning mentality so although this isn’t as important as the other competitions, I hope we go out there with the intention of getting a result.
That said, we can surely expect Roberto Mancini to make a whole host of changes to the side which drew away to Fulham. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a complete reshuffle, with Costel Pantilimon, Stefan Savic and Abdul Razak all pushing for their full City débuts. Owen Hargreaves is only fit enough, according to the manager, to manage half an hour to 45 minutes so may be seen in the second half. Israeli international and thoroughly nice guy, Gai Assulin, could also make his debut in a creative midfield role.
In defence, we will see the return after his drugs ban of Kolo Touré, whilst Nedum Onuoha, recently back training with the first team squad, could make an appearance. With the likes of Carlos Tévez, Adam Johnson and Mario Balotelli all guaranteed to start, it gives an indication of just how strong our squad is these days. Mancini has built a squad capable of competing on four fronts and now is the to show it.
Here is the side that could be selected:
Birmingham were defeated by Southampton convincingly at the weekend and having lost so many of their better players following their relegation to the Championship last season, they will struggle to return at the first attempt. In addition, their participation in the Europa League means that the likelihood is they will take this competition lightly. Their defence is arguably their strong point, with Stephen Carr and Liam Ridgewell both very experienced and shrewd operators.
Referee: Kevin Friend – I’m not a huge fan of his, but this shouldn’t be a controversy-filled game. At least he’s not officiating us in a crucial Premier League game.
Prediction: MAN CITY 3 – 0 Birmingham – Both sides aren’t likely to be anyhwere near full-strength but we should have more than enough quality. Goals to be scored by Mario Balotelli and a brace from Carlos Tévez.
I can not think of any team selection better than you have posted here. Absolutely spot on. This would give key players a deserved rest. I do hope Mancini thinks the same! Is there a chance that Wayne Bridge can start in place of Kolarov?
very strong line up if u ask me
am dieing to see wat the so called new messi can do{ps assulin}
Bridge instead of Kolarov is a possibility, but I doubt it. Bridge isn’t in Mancini’s plans at all, so see no reason why he would play.
dont expect onouha to play hope he does but wudnt b surprised to c wabara start wud expect a 4-4-2 wiv assulin on the right and aj on the left
You missed Hargreaves out mate, do you think he’ll be on the bench then?
your system would not let me put my correct email eric@mcfcbrisbane.com
Hi Eric, as I wrote in the teamnews section, Mancini has stated that Hargreaves is only fit enough for 30/45mins, so I guess he’ll be on the bench and come on for the second half.
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