Media round-up: Wednesday, 19th October

By Ric Turner, Wed 19 October 2011 09:38


Media round-up: Wednesday, 19th October

Roberto Mancini admitted Manchester City were 'lucky' to win their Champions League game against Villarreal in injury time. "It was the last chance of the match and we were lucky. You have to be lucky to score in the last second and now the group is open again and anything can happen. It was a really important moment for us." said Mancini.

Meanwhile Mancini played down rumours of a spat with Adam Johnson after the winger was substituted during the first half. "Adam played very well but at that moment I had to do a tactical substitution. I spoke with him (afterwards) and he understood this. Sometimes every manager decides to make a substitution."

Boca Juniors have been priced out of an audacious move to re-sign Carlos Tevez, according to The Mirror. The Argentinians have had to admit defeat in their attempt to loan Tevez, because of his £250,000-a-week salary. Boca were hoping that either Tevez would slash his wage demands or that City would subsidise his huge salary, but they have had to admit both are highly unlikely.

The Sun report that Barcelona defender Eric Abidal claims Manchester City want him. The 32 year old is in contract talks, and said: "Clubs have shown an interest, notably PSG, Milan and Man City."

The Daily Star have revealed that City are the fifth most hated team in the Premiership, behind Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool. The survey of 2,000 supporters by online bookmaker 888sport was carried out ahead of this weekend’s derby to see if City had become more unpopular than their neighbours. A 888sport spokesman said: “We wanted to find out if Man City’s millions have made them the most hated club, when typically United have held that position. We’re definitely surprised City aren’t higher up the table.”