Squad strength has cost City

MANCHESTER City boss Roberto Mancini feels his squad has lacked the depth to cover for absence this season.

Mancini failed to secure any of his prime targets in last summer's transfer market and his team has failed to produce the strong title defence many anticipated.

City have under–achieved and trailing Manchester United by 15 points at the top of the Barclays Premier League, their title bid seems doomed.

Mancini said: "When we have all the players to choose from it is easier.

"We had too many important players injured at crucial moments.

"We are not a team who can play for a long time without Vinny, Yaya, Sergio, Silva, Samir (Nasri). They are really important for us."

Mancini defended his side in the light of remarks from Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye, who said prior to Saturday's game at the Etihad Stadium that City were a team of individuals rather than a cohesive unit.

City went on to sweep the Magpies aside 4–0 in one of their best displays of the season.