Blue Days

Once Birmingham’s resolute defence was breached, the floodgates opened as City’s attack racked up five with Tevez, Adebayor and, more surprisingly, Nedum Onuoha running riot. This was another performance to put the pressure on our rivals for a Champions League place.

Given – One stop with his feet would have impressed all the watching keepers of City’s past. The failure to reach a cross that left an opponent with a free header would have left said keepers wincing. 6

Onuoha – Deserves to be credited with two goals, and deserves to keep his place for the derby because of his excellent tackling. Link up play with Johnson wasn’t great but more than made up for it with the goals. 8

Following the explosive victory over Burnley, City take on a contrasting Birmingham side. Renowned for their defensive organisation, Alex McCleish’s side will be a tougher nut to crack, even without Joe Hart.

Given – A brilliant double save in the first half was arguably even better than the penalty stop. His performance was a real birthday present to the manager. 9

Zabaleta – A steadier game from Pablo, with some good clearing headers. Going forward their was little attacking threat. We were crying out for a repeat of the cross for Santa Cruz he provided against Scunthorpe, but it never arrived. 6

Mark Hughes’ side returned from St. Andrews with a draw thanks to the performance of Shay Given who left Birmingham’s James McFadden beating the ground in frustration following a second half penalty save.

Remarkably, City have moved up to fourth place despite a fourth consecutive league draw. This says more for the faltering results of those around them rather than any brilliance by the Blues. Once again, City looked a long way from being the collective sum of their individual parts.

Mark Hughes’ team head to the midlands buoyed by the five goals against Scunthorpe and desperate to get back to winning ways after three consecutive Premier League draws. The excellent performances of returning players on Wednesday have left the manager with options aplenty.