Manchester City Football Club

• Nickname:Sky Blues
• Founded:1887
• Manager:Roberto Mancini

• Ground:City of Manchester Stadium
• Capacity:47805

Pearce hopes for club return

11 Jun 2007 - 08:08:53

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Stuart Pearce is hoping to use the Under-21 European Championship to put himself in the shop window for a return to club management.

Pearce was sacked by Manchester City last month after a disappointing last season in which they scored only ten home Premier League goals - the worst record in the history of top-flight football.

After flirting with relegation last term, City eventually finished 14th and Pearce paid the price with his job.

However, the former England international is hoping a strong showing from his under-21 side in the Netherlands will lead to a return to club management.

He said "There is great expectation for the tournament.

"It will get greater and greater and be a good summer's football.

"Every time you take to the pitch you are putting yourself in the shop window and proving yourself to your team-mates. We're all in the same boat.

"From my point of view losing a job was disappointing. I know from my own history it will make me stronger.

"It is experience telling me that and inner strength."

England start their European Championship campaign against the Czech Republic in Arnhem on Monday evening.