City duo doubtful for Villa clash
Manchester City have a double fitness concern ahead of their must-win Premier League clash with Aston Villa on Saturday.
Big-money striker Emmanuel Adebayor is struggling to shake off a thigh problem, whilst former Villa midfielder Gareth Barry is doubtful for the encounter with his former club after picking up a hamstring injury.
Manager Roberto Mancini must also decide whether to draft Martin Fulop straight into his starting line-up following his arrival on an emergency loan from Sunderland.
Fulop was signed yesterday after efforts to get Joe Hart back from his loan spell at Birmingham failed.
Hart was City’s first choice to replace Shay Given, who dislocated his shoulder at Arsenal on Sunday, but the deal was blocked by the Premier League, leaving Faroe Islands international Gunner Nielsen as the Blues only fit keeper.
It led to consternation at Eastlands, where Blues officials felt they had been the victims of a U-turn by the authorities.
However, Mancini admitted he could understand Birmingham’s position.
“It is an emergency for us,” said Mancini.
“We tried to get Joe but Birmingham said no. I respect that decision.
“We had to get someone because I have no idea when Shay will be back and apart from Gunner Nielsen, we only had a 15-year-old.
“I will check the players in training and decide who plays on Saturday.”
