Man with a five-year plan

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini is keen to build on the success of the club's first championship since 1968 and believes his new five–year contract will allow him to do so.

The Italian had 12 months to run on his existing deal, and the new contract puts paid to rumours of links with the Russian national team.

He is keen to use City's first title for 44 years as a platform for further improvement: "The opportunity that exists is enormous," he said. "I am delighted to be able to give all of my efforts to Manchester City for a further five years.”

The new contract - said to be worth £37million - is a tangible reward for pipping neighbours Manchester United to the league title.

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