• FA Cup

Mancini in the dark over Silva homesickness

ESPNsoccernet staff
February 20, 2011
David Silva was signed from Valencia © PA Photos
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Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini insists David Silva has said nothing to him about a reported desire to return to Spain at the end of the season.

Mancini guided City to a 5-0 triumph over Notts County in the FA Cup on Sunday, a victory that saw Silva play a key role. However, the Spaniard is reportedly homesick and seeking a return to his native Spain in the near future.

''I didn't read these stories but someone told me this," Mancini said. "Today he played very well but he has never spoken to me about this.''

City goalkeeper Shay Given will discover this week if he needs to undergo surgery after he recently suffered a shoulder injury. Given, who has played second fiddle to Joe Hart all season, was not on the bench for the victory over County.

"He has a shoulder problem and next week he will go to the doctor in London to see if he needs surgery,'' Mancini confirmed.

Patrick Vieira grabbed a brace and Edin Dzeko also got on the scoresheet for Mancini's men, and the City boss was full of praise for both players.

"Patrick played well, he scored two goals and I am happy for him as I am for Dzeko, because it is important for strikers to score,'' he added. "Dzeko had three or four chances to score but I think Edin needs time as all players who play for the first time in England need time.''

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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