VMC's Some Might Say: Clouseau And Co Sent Packing

Cunning Roberto Mancini outwitted and outfoxed Aston Villa's Gerard Houllier with ease today. His 5 bold team changes resulting in a sublime win. Post match reaction...

Roberto Mancini:

'It is very important to rotate our players. We played a very strong game at Newcastle and today it was important to have five or six changes...when you play two games in 38 hours it is very difficult. It is impossible to play the same players...For me, if Mario plays like he did this afternoon he can become one of the top players in Europe.'

Patrick Vieira: (to Talksport)

'The team spirit is fantastic. At the start of the season we put our target really high. We want to finish in the top four and when you look at the quality of the teams we can achieve that target...every opportunity we get we will try to make it difficult for the manager to pick the eleven that start. A few players didn't play but when you play two games in two days you need to make changes. We are training every day, we are working hard for each other. We are really pleased that we showed to the manager that he can count on us.'

Gerard Houllier:

'I'm sure we can turn things around...Don't get me wrong, Manchester City played extremely well but we eased their task. At the same time we did not show our best. The first goal is always an important goal but today because of the opposition it would be more difficult. It is just that we are conceding too many goals but we have to address that as a team not only four players and a goalkeeper. We now have to focus on the next game - it's always the most important when you lose.'

VMC's Spooks (pre match):

'Silva is a better footballer than Tevez but they both want the ball all the time. Silva should flourish now that Mr. T is rested as long as Super Mario pulls his finger out of his arse. With Viera and De Jong sat in the middle and the rest of the midfield bombing forward this should be a good game. Don't think too hard lads, just give the ball to Silva and move into space.'

Bluedub:

'They don't come much easier than that. Well in City, top of the table for a few hours at least. C'mon Brum!'

NEW YEARS DAY ON VMC:

Head for the VMC Match Day Experience Forum for the build up and beyond to the third part of City's festive trilogy when Blackpool come to town.

Vital Man City on:

Vital Man City on:

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.