‘City still United’s equals’
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini insists his team will use Monday's derby to show they are still Manchester United's equals even though the Premier League title is destined for Old Trafford.
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini insists his team will use Monday's derby to show they are still Manchester United's equals even though the Premier League title is destined for Old Trafford.
With United 15 points clear of second placed City, Mancini has been forced to concede his side's reign as champions is all but over.
Yet there is still plenty to play for at Old Trafford, with United looking to move closer to confirming their title triumph and City desperate to inflict a bloody nose on their bitter rivals. “We don't deserve to stay 15 points behind United,” said Mancini. “I don't know at this moment what my approach will be. To play there is difficult but there is not a big difference between us and them."
With the title gone, Mancini has set his sights on finishing second place and winning the FA Cup -- his team face Chelsea in the semi-finals at Wembley next Sunday.
Balotelli fined
Milan: AC Milan’s Mario Balotelli was fined for smoking in a train toilet and suspended for a needless yellow card. Balotelli, who has scored seven goals since his move from City, also threw a tantrum at the end of the 2-2 draw against Fiorentina after he was involved in an altercation with rival goalkeeper Emiliano Viviano.
Liverpool held
London: Liverpool's bid for a European berth faltered on Saturday as they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw at home to West Ham United in the Premier League.
The result meant Brendan Rodgers' side remained in seventh place, six points below the European qualifying places.
Chelsea win
London: Chelsea came from behind to beat Sunderland 2-1 at Stamford Bridge on Sunday and deny Paolo Di Canio a sensational start in his first game as EPL manager. Chelsea’s victory, in a game that witnessed two own goals, saw them climb above both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur into third place.