Mancini warns of Stoke challenge

Roberto Mancini has issued a rallying cry to his Manchester City side warning them not to mess things up in the FA Cup final.

The Citizens are celebrating ensuring Champions League qualification for the first time in their history, securing that Premier League top four spot with a 1-0 win over Spurs.

Now their attentions turn to the FA Cup final against Stoke City at Wembley as they look to win silverware for City for the first time in 35 years. Most people make the Blues their FA Cup betting tips, but their manager is not taking anything for granted.

Qualifying for the Champions League was the number one ambition for City this season, but the opportunity to win a trophy and give the fans something to cheer must be grasped with both hands.

Boss Roberto Mancini has said he is “very proud” for his team to have reached the top European club competition but has warned his players against resting on their laurels as they face a very tough Stoke City side in the FA Cup final. Those who bet on FA Cup final action should expect a close game.

“Now we are just thinking about the FA Cup final on Saturday,” said the manager.

“We have expended a lot of energy against Tottenham and it will not be easy against Stoke. Saturday will be a hard game. If we think it’s going to be easy then that will be a big mistake.”

Carlos Tevez has been the main injury doubt ahead of the FA Cup final but he returned to the first team for the final seven minutes against Spurs.

Their 21-goal top forward will now be looking to start at Wembley as Mancini had stated he would captain the team and lead them out at the historic home of football.

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