Smash Hit

City open talks with Benfica over £27m Di Marian

Argentine international is seen as a direct replacement for Robinho, who is now eager to return to Spanish football

Hughes happy with record next to 'Big Four'

Manchester City manager is content as his side have lost less matches than any other in the Barclays Premier League

Premier League previews: Defoe back

All the team news, injury problems and squads from around the grounds for the weekend matches in the top flight

Given penalty save earns draw for City

Birmingham 0 Man City 0: Ireland goalkeeper stops a tame spot-kick from James McFadden to earn a fourth successive draw

Hart unable to relax despite day off

On-loan goalkeeper an interested spectator as his parent club gain a goalless draw against the one they loaned him to

Richards: growing pains

Manchester City’s defender hopes to underline his World Cup credentials against Birmingham City at St Andrew's

United to face Spurs in Carling Cup quarter-finals

Holders at home to Tottenham in repeat of last season's final, while Arsenal youngsters face tough trip to Manchester City

Premier League previews: Ferdinand a doubt for United

All the team news, injury problems and squads from around the grounds for the weekend matches in the top flight

Adebayor: snub from Arsenal players provoked me

Manchester City striker condemns London club's 'insulting' fans and says he would not have been picked had he stayed at the club

Bellamy ready to quit international arena

Injury worries may force Manchester City striker to end commitment to Wales in a bid to prolong his career at club level

Santa Cruz leads City’s returning cavalry

Man City 5 Scunthorpe 1: forward scores on his first start since a £18m move as Mark Hughes's fringe players shine

Lescott will prove to be a sound investment

Mark Hughes launches staunch defence of centre-back and believes player will become the best in his position in Premier League

Football in brief: Backe to manage Notts County

Eriksson's former assistant to take hot seat, Robinho dreams of playing for Barcelona and Stan Kroenke buys more Arsenal shares

Fulham fightback gives Hughes reality check

Manchester City 2 Fulham 2: Londoners return from two goals down to force City to settle for a third straight draw