Perfect pro earns Mancini tribute

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini would love to discover the 'new Patrick Vieira' but for the time being he is more than happy with the original version.

The former Arsenal midfielder scored two headers to put City well on their way to a 5–0 FA Cup fourth-round replay victory over Notts County at Eastlands yesterday.

Club captain Carlos Tevez, Edin Dzeko and Micah Richards chipped in with goals in the final six minutes to give the scoreline an unfair reflection on County.

But it was Vieira's goals, coming either side of half–time, that ensured City's progress as they had found themselves under pressure from the League One side.

Mancini has used the 34–year–old mainly in cup competitions and the Europa League, but that does not mean he does not value the former France international, who doubled his tally of goals for the season.

"He knows the position and it is important that when he plays he plays well," said the City boss.

"He is 34 now and time goes for everyone. Time passes for all players.

"If we find a player like Patrick for our future it would be fantastic as he was one of the best midfielders in the world for a long time.”

Mancini dismissed speculation that summer signing David Silva was homesick and looking to move back to Spain.

"I didn't read these stories, but someone told me this," added the Italian. "Today he played very well, but he has never spoken to me about this."

The score was harsh on County, who dominated the opening half–hour and could have been ahead had Karl Hawley's shot not rebounded back off a post.