Source: PA
Mancini has no sympathy for bench-warmers
Roberto Mancini has told the disgruntled members of his squad that no-one at Manchester City can expect to play every week any more.
Shay Given, Roque Santa Cruz and Adam Johnson have all voiced their concern about not getting a regular game with City this season, whilst Emmanuel Adebayor's voice has become increasing persistent in expressing his displeasure.
Adebayor claimed earlier this week that a loan deal had been done with Juventus that would allow him to leave for Turin in January, although City sources insist the assertion is not true. It does seem inevitable the £25million purchase from Arsenal will be allowed to quit at some stage during the transfer window.
However, with a packed programme approaching, right through to the end of the festive period, Mancini is calling for further commitment. And the Italian has also pointed out that, having joined the quickening City bandwagon, highly-paid players must accept the downside of what comes with battling for major honours.
"They must understand that in a top team, it is impossible to always play," said Mancini. "When a player plays, he must do well. That goes for Adebayor, Jo, Mario Balotelli, everyone. For Adebayor, probably this situation can change in January. But it depends. If we lose a striker, we must get another one.
"No player is happy when they don't play. But between now and when we play Arsenal on January 5 we have 10 games, so all the players will play this month and we need them to concentrate on that."
