Manchester City midfielder Jack Rodwell is ready to fill the void left by Yaya Toure when he goes to the African Cup of Nations in January.

Yaya Toure was one of City's star performers in their title winning campaign last season and has once again been vital so far this term. However he is set to leave for the African Cup of Nations in January but Jack Rodwell, hoping to be fit by the New Year, believes he has the ability to step in for the Ivorian.

“I’ve just had a little bit of a setback with my hamstring injury, it will probably be another few weeks, so I’m looking into the New Year,” he told the clubs website.

“I’m doing quite a lot of training at the minute though, so I’m keeping busy."

“It’s down to strengthening now, so I’m doing a lot of work in the gym and am just getting it right to prevent another injury."

The 21-year-old midfielder has been out of action with a hamstring injury picked up on duty with the England Under-21s, and hasn't made an appearance for City since the 3-0 win over Sunderland at the Etihad in October.

“It’s been a frustrating start to the season and to my City career, but I’m focused now and I’m ready to get back,” he expressed.

Mancini's other alternatives to fill in for Yaya Toure would be the likes of Javi Garcia and Gareth Barry, while James Milner can also operate in a central position.

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