Source: Telegraph
Roberto Mancini denies rift with Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy
The Italian has denied reports of a serious rift with the Man City striker, who has been sidelined with a knee injury. [LNB]However, Mancini said they did have a difference of opinion about the way the problem was being managed. [LNB]Juventus deny rumours of deal for West Ham striker Carlton ColeWest Ham close to £10 million deal for Brescia?s Savio NserekoHe will now monitor Bellamy's fitness over the weekend and the Welshman might come into contention and face Liverpool. [LNB]According to the report, Mancini screamed at Bellamy after the player refused a request to train on Thursday with one of the manager's Italian staff. [LNB]The Italian apparently then told him not to come back from three months. [LNB]That was emphatically disputed by Mancini, who said: "Today Craig is here, working with the physio. It was the same yesterday. [LNB]"These things (an argument) can happen in a job. I don't have problems with Craig. [LNB]"I spoke with him in the office and read that I shouted at him. But I didn't. We just spoke face-to-face. [LNB]"He is having treatment at the training ground and if the knee is okay, he will be available for Sunday." [LNB]Meanwhile, the Football Association have confirmed Patrick Vieira will serve a three-game ban after the City midfielder opted not to contest a charge of violent conduct. [LNB]The veteran Frenchman escaped punishment at the time after kicking Stoke's Glenn Whelan between the legs during Tuesday's 1-1 draw at the Britannia Stadium. [LNB]However, he was charged after video evidence was reviewed and will now miss Premier League games against Liverpool and Chelsea and the FA Cup replay against Stoke. [LNB]
