different level

Really happy for him and hopefully the goal will boost his confidence. He has a lot to prove that he can be a worthy squad player for us and the upcoming cup games offer him a great opportunity to do so.

I think only the people who were expecting him to join the squad and instantly turn into a Messi or Ronaldo say he is a flop. Yes, we paid a lot, but it's his first season, give him some time, he definitely could be that guy! Maybe there is also the Mata factor who is overshadowing a bit Eden's contribution to the team, but don't be so foolish, he's also having a great season, proving his worth and IMO he is the second most creative player in the team at the moment. Also I believe his season is on par, if not a bit better than Mata's first one, so be more patient, this guy is special.

Words can't describe how much I wanted this to work out. For almost two years I was defending him from the insults from fans (including Chelsea fans), I really thought a class player like him would turn his fortune around. It was like every game we played I said to myself: "This is the match when the Torres we know returns" and most of the times I ended up bitterly disappointed. Sure there were times when he stepped up and improved for a short spell somehow convincing me and probably the rest of us that he can be our star striker, only to return to his poor form putting again the cloak of invisibility. Now I think I gave up on the hope that the things between him and Chelsea could work out, but what can you expect from a player who has lost all his speed, leading to loss of confidence in his finishing which was once world class. Sometimes we can see flashes of his old briilliance, but in no way could that be enough for the extremely ambitious club that we are.

I also heard he played well, although I hadn't watched a full AcoN match, but those are definitely some positive news. Mikel is a very underrated player, quite often been made fun of his inability to do something creative up front and also being a back passer, but last month his absence was felt when we had to defend a lead.

Just had a quick look at our fixtures. After City we play West Brom (H), Fulham (A), West Ham (H), Southampton (A) and Sunderland (H). So we need a strong March, winning most, if not all of those matches, because after that are the tougher games against Spurs, Loserpool and Manure.

I don't think Turnbull will start in this one. I believe Petr has a huge desire to participate against his old club, as I recall him saying he hopes to be fit for that match after the fracture in his finger emerged. As for the others I'd like to see heavy rotation, probably start Marin to try and boost his confidence over his goal two days ago, Benayoun is also someone that should be used in the rotation, but I doubt he'll be a starter here, maybe against Brentford? Bertrand should also appear, but not as a winger. Lamps deserves a rest and with the lack of options on the double pivot I guess Ramires and Luiz should operate there. Nando is the only one available in front and the way I see it he should play in the Sparta and Brentford while Demba is saved for the league games, hopefully his nose feels better for the City tie.

Alright, guys, I have a question for you. I want to fill my collection of home shirts and one of those missing is the 10/11 one, so I want to ask you how is it in terms of size in comparison with the 11/12 and the 12/13? The 11/12 "S" was a perfect fit for me and the "M" was huge, however for the 12/13 one the "S" was too short and "M" was the better option. So any suggestions whether I should get an S or an M of this beauty?

Nigeria won and Victor was chosen as the player of the tournament So I'm guessing him and Mikel are returning in a great mood ready to take on Sparta on Thursday

He manages to show individual brilliance in every of his matches lately, including the one for England against Brazil! Scoring decisive goals and being inspirational character and leader! 4 more goals until the record is equaled.

Great return with a goal and an assist. Our attacks from the left wing looked sharp again after three fruitless games with Bertrand there.

They also fucked up quite a bit, now three consecutive league matches without a win.

ROFL. I feel so happy like we've won the Champions League again!

Oh god, finally a decent game by our players. I was literally shaking, thinking wigan will find a way to squirm a point.

Laaaaamps!

We are not winning this one, are we?

2-0! Now I am worried

We're pushed against the wall, so I think we'll win this comfortably. Not doing so will probably mean we'll have a new manager by Monday.

I actually like Wigan. So therefore we must smash them so bad making sure they remember the 8-0 slaughter from the final matchday of 09/10!

Although it's always nice to get caps for your national team, I really hope Frankie sits out todays' match, he really needs some rest.

Congrats to David for acquiring the Brazil captaincy! Who knows, maybe one day we could see him do that with our team

My ever reliable facebook news feed

There is only Juan Mata

Looks like we'll have our beloved nigerians available after the international round up for the City match at Etihad.

Well, from what I've heard they are supporting him, but you never know for sure what is happening behind the scenes.

We should win this one, because if we don't Rafa will probably get crucified. I'm glad the team can finally have a break after so many matches in 2 months and now with all the players recharged and fresh, especially Hazard, there will be no excuses.