I was mystified by Manchester City’s tactics during the big derby clash at Eastlands during the week. With all the attacking talent at his disposal, Roberto Mancini was happy to allow Yaya Toure to be the man most often breaking with the ball at his feet. That a draw was a good result in the Italian’s mind speaks volumes for City’s true ambitions this season.

Birmingham have been one of a number of clubs to have played reasonably well but fail when it comes to picking up important points. That they hover just above the relegation zone will not be of too great a concern just yet, however should they slip much further down the division a little pressure may fall on Alex McLeish considering the strength of squad Birmingham’s newest investors have provided.

With Carlos Tevez around, a lot of Manchester City’s faults are papered over. However, if the Argentine is negated by eager to impress Roger Johnson, there may be a chance of the Midlands side leaving with a point as City currently appear short of a plan B.

Prediction: 1-1

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