Source: Team_Talk
Vieira vows to fight for City spot
Veteran midfielder Patrick Vieira intends to push himself to the limit in a bid to win a regular place in the Manchester City side this season.[LNB] Vieira, 34, could return to the team against Juventus in the Europa League on Thursday night at Eastlands after being an unused substitute in the win over Chelsea at the weekend.[LNB]A World Cup winner with France in 1998, he has been left frustrated at his lack of game-time after arriving from Inter Milan in January.[LNB]He said: "I have been happy with my form since start of season. It is difficult when you play one game every month. I need to work harder than everyone else to show the manager can count on me.[LNB]"I just want to enjoy myself. I am involved in a fantastic challenge with this club and really want to be part of it."[LNB]Juventus are in a period of transition like City and both teams are favourites to progress from the group ahead of Lech Poznan and Strasbourg.[LNB]Vieira, who had a season with the Turin club, expects City to edge out their Italian rivals.[LNB]"I think they are going through a difficult period. Maybe it is not the best Juventus side in the last few years but they are still a really competitive team.[LNB]"It will be difficult for us to find the space to play but we have players who can give them problems as well.[LNB]"Our strength is the squad. We can be competitive in every competition we are involved in."[LNB]Manager Roberto Mancini is aware it could be a pivotal week for the club following the victory over Chelsea with Newcastle to come on Sunday.[LNB]He said: "We are working to improve, like Juve. We need time. We have the same targets.[LNB]"It is an important week. It is important after beating Chelsea we try to beat Juve tomorrow and then deal with Newcastle. They will be two difficult games."[LNB]Mancini has not ruled out the possibility of returning home to Italy to coach Juventus one day.[LNB]"Why not, football is like that, " he said. "I have never been an enemy of Juventus. I was a huge fan for years when I was a child so I have great respect for the club and the players.[LNB]"It will be a special match as it is the first time I am coaching an English team against Juventus.[LNB]"Obviously I miss home as anyone would but I am happy here. This is where I am living and working."
