Manchester City striker Benjani on mission to earn new deal at Eastlands

12 January 2010 11:05
The Zimbabwean forward, frozen out by former manager Mark Hughes, has started the club's last two games under new manager Roberto Mancini. [LNB]Having scored the winner in the FA Cup third round victory at Middlesbrough on Jan 2, the former Portsmouth forward also played a key role in the 4-1 win against Blackburn on Monday by creating Manchester City's opening three goals. [LNB] Related ArticlesHas T?z proved Ferguson wrong?Mancini hails Tevez's supreme skillManchester City 4 Blackburn Rovers 1Premier League Transfer TalkPremier League actionPremier League tableInjuries have affected Benjani's prospects during his two years at Eastlands and both Hull and Notts County were keen to sign him during the August transfer window. [LNB]But having returned to favour under Mancini, Benjani admits he is now ready to battle it out to secure an extended stay at the club. [LNB]He said: 'I'm very happy because I've started two games in a row and it's been a long time since that happened. [LNB]'As a player you have to keep on believing, even if you know the chances of playing regularly are slim. [LNB]'You have to be very professional, do everything right and work very hard and now I'm glad I'm getting my chance. [LNB]'I've always wanted to see out my career at City. I have six months left on my current deal and it would be nice if I could get another year or so. [LNB]'The only thing that is important to me is to fight hard for the right to play and I love the role I've had in recent weeks. [LNB]'I think it suits my game because I love a physical battle but the good thing is that when one player goes out, another comes in and does just as well those are the ingredients of a very good team.'[LNB] -- Has Carlos Tévez proved Sir Alex Ferguson wrong? Have your say in our sport debate[LNB]City climbed into the top four by cruising to victory against Blackburn and Benjani insists that Mancini's team can stay in the Champions League reckoning. [LNB]He said: 'We need to take each game as it comes but we feel we can beat anyone at the moment. [LNB]'We have reached the top four and now we want to stay there. And while we have such competition for places and such belief and determination in the team then there is no reason why we cannot do that.'[LNB]

Source: Telegraph