Mancini Unfazed By Ferguson Mind Games

Roberto Mancini is not concerned with Sir Alex Ferguson's comments that Manchester City are under increased pressure to steal the title from United this season, with the Italian said to be laughing off claims that he is falling victim to the legendary manager's mind games.

Comments regarding the likes of Mario Balotelli and Carlos Tevez have been made by Ferguson over the past few weeks, in response to Patrick Vieira's claims that the Red Devils have shown that they are a weaker side by recalling the formerly retired Paul Scholes into the squad in January.

And while United are now in top spot to take the number one position from City on the table, equal on points and with a game in hand, David Platt claims that Mancini is ignoring any comments in the media from his rival.

"I read it and when you look at the quotes, Sir Alex hasn't necessarily said that," the first team coach told Sky Sports.

"It seems it was a bit tongue in cheek and there was a bit of fun there - I don't know.

"But Robbie just laughed, he just laughed. It's not a problem to him. It's not about him and it's not about Sir Alex. It's about the two teams alone and apart."

City have been on top of the Premier League table for most of the season, and though they looked to have the title tied up as soon as in October when they defeated United 6-1, Ferguson's men have refused to lay down.

And after City's shock loss to Swansea two weeks ago, United finally moved into pole position to stake their claim on a record 20<sup>th Premier League title.

But Platt believes the battle is far from over yet, and that City will hit full throttle as they look to make up for the loss that gave United their edge.

"[Mancini]'s done it before and he wants to win.," he explained. "As regards the pressure on him, it's not about whether he handles the pressure so much as whether the players go out and get the results.

"He's fine. He's beyond fine - seriously!"