Patrick Vieira intends to fight for his place at Manchester City
Manchester City midfielder Patrick Vieira has said that he will continue to fight for a starting place on Roberto Mancini's team throughout the current season.
Vieira, 34, joined City from Inter Milan in January this year to reunite with Mancini. The Italian coached the midfielder during two of the four years he spent at the Italian club.
Despite showing signs of great form and fitness during the early stages of the season, the Frenchman has been overlooked for most Premier League fixtures.
His only appearance in the league came against Blackburn Rovers on September 11, when the former Arsenal captain scored City's only goal before the game ended in a 1–1 draw.
"I have been happy with my form since start of season. It is difficult when you play one game every month," Vieira said ahead of Thursday's Europa League clash with Juventus, another of his former clubs. "I need to work harder than everyone else to show
the manager can count on me."
Highly competitive squad
With City having spent lavishly during the past two summers to land deals for the likes of Carlos Tevez, Gareth Barry, James Milner and Mario Balotelli, Vieira recognises that his wish for more playing time may not be fulfilled.
Nonetheless, the veteran said he is enjoying being part of Mancini's team, who, after being knocked out of the league cup last week, are still in contention in the domestic league, the FA Cup and the Europa League.
"I just want to enjoy myself. I am involved in a fantastic challenge with this club and really want to be part of it... Our strength is the squad. We can be competitive in every competition we are involved in."
After hosting Juventus on Thursday, City hosts Newcastle United in the Premier League on Sunday. Mancini's team is currently in fourth place with 11 points from six games.
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