• Carling Cup

Mancini critical of Johnson attitude

ESPN staff
October 27, 2011
Adam Johnson scored one and made one against Wolves © Getty Images
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Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has told winger Adam Johnson he must change his attitude if he is to realise his potential.

Mancini made the comments after watching Johnson star in City's 5-2 Carling Cup win over Wolves on Wednesday, in which the England international scored one and created one.

But despite Johnson's attacking contribution, Mancini was less than impressed with his defensive efforts, particularly for Wolves' second of the game.

Mancini said: "Sometimes he thinks, 'Okay, in this game I scored one goal, I did an assist, that is enough.' I think Adam, because he is young, can improve a lot. He needs to think in a different way. He needs to think, 'I scored one goal, I did one assist, I should continue because I want to score another goal and another assist, and run back to defend.'

"He can do this if he wants. My opinion is this, he has everything to become one of the top wingers. Adam is young, he is in his third season in the Premier League. I am disappointed when he doesn't put everything on the pitch. Tonight he played well, but for the second goal Wolves scored, he never followed his opponent.

"Adam is the only one winger we have in the team. He cannot play every game, it is impossible, but if he wants to improve, he can have a lot of chances to play."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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