Given – The wall, rather than Shay, was at fault for Everton’s first as de Jong moved to allow Pienaar a gap. Shay needed his reflexes to tip over other efforts and keep us in the game. 7
Garrido – There were a couple of times when Donovan and others got through on our left flank, but Javier did ok on the ball. 6
Continue Reading →A predictably fired-up Everton forced City on to the back foot as Roberto Mancini suffered his first defeat since taking over at Eastlands. The absence of so many players finally caught up with us and by the end the “honeymoon is over” cliche was out in force for the manager.
Continue Reading →City’s run of five consecutive victories comes up against an Everton side unbeaten in six league games for Roberto Mancini’s toughest test yet. Arsene Wenger conceded his side were grateful to get a point at home to Everton last weekend.
Continue Reading →City have confirmed that an agreement has been reached with Everton for the transfer of Joleon Lescott.
Sky Sports News have stated that the player has already completed part of his medical. If the remainder is completed tomorrow (Monday) and personal terms agreed, then the long running transfer could finally be concluded by the end of the day.
The fee has yet to be confirmed. Estimates vary from £22m to £24m, an undoubtedly huge sum for a player who is not an England regular. Mark Hughes will no doubt describe himself as “delighted” to have finally captured his first choice target for the left side of central defence.
Lescott can also provide cover for left-back. With Zabaleta and McGivern also appearing there in recent friendlies, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the departure of Javier Garrido before the close of the transfer window.
Speculation about the future of Richard Dunne will doubtless intensify despite his recent statements of being willing to fight for his place. Sunderland, Villa and Spurs are amongst those who have been linked with the skipper throughout the Summer and if the Irishman wants regular first team football, then he could be tempted to move.
Lescott meanwhile could be set to make his debut in the Carling Cup tie at Crystal Palace on Thursday.