Manchester City should get Mancini off to a winning start

When all the fuss dies down over Roberto Mancini's quick replacement of Mark Hughes there will be no excuses available if the players fail to give their all. Being upset at the loss of a manager is one thing - playing poorly is quite another. Add to that the fact that the majority of players at Eastlands knew they were going to a hothouse where a lot of money would be spent - but that it would be a short stay for anyone who underperforms. If you join a big-spending-club-in-a-hurry you can't complain if they rush things.

With the January transfer window about to open City players know as well as anyone that their places are now open to question and Mancini will replace them if they are not up to scratch. It is also a time for players who fell foul of the old regime to start again - perhaps suggesting that Robinho could be ready to make a telling contribution.

City now have a stated aim of a top four finish and the players know that they will be replaced as quickly as the manager if they are below par. So the City players may be unhappy, but they will also know that their places are up for grabs - I would expect a professional display, today, and a win against Stoke.

Odds (all from Bet365 - who are offering £200 in free bets for new accounts):
4/9 Man City win
11/2 Robinho, first goal