• FA Cup

Man City waiting on Silva fitness

ESPN staff
April 12, 2013
David Silva has recovered quicker than Roberto Mancini expected © AP
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Manchester City will give David Silva as long as possible to prove his fitness for their FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea on Sunday.

The Spain international will have a fitness test on the morning of the tie after injuring his hamstring in Monday's 2-1 derby win over Manchester United.

But while manager Roberto Mancini had been prepared to rule the midfielder out, he said Silva is recovering quicker than he had expected.

"We will decide on Sunday morning. We don't know if it is possible but if there is a risk he doesn't play," the Italian said.

"It is getting better. Yesterday [Thursday] he ran, I think we have a chance, I don't think he can play 100% but it is important he is very close."

Mancini also has to decide whether to recall Sergio Aguero, the substitute who was City's match-winner at Old Trafford.

The Argentina international has not started a game since February but although he is not fully fit, Mancini believes he could start at Wembley.

"I am happy because he had a good impact on the game on Monday night. It is important he didn't have any problem in his knee. He probably is not 100% but Sergio at 80% is important," Mancini said.

City beat Chelsea 2-0 in February, but Mancini believes Saturday's opponents are in better form now and is anticipating a tougher game.

He said: "Every game against Chelsea is difficult. They are a good team in their best moment this season, doing very well and I am happy for [Rafa] Benitez because he is a good manager."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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