Premier League: Manuel Pellegrini facing goalkeeper dilemma

Nov 01, 2013
Premier League: Manuel Pellegrini facing goalkeeper dilemma
Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini says he is undecided who will start Saturday's Premier League game against Norwich between the sticks after backup goalie Costel Pantilimon put in a sensational display in Wednesday's Capital One Cup win over Newcastle. Pantilimon made two great saves as City won the Capital One Cup tie 2-0, their first clean sheet in seven games. Joe Hart remains City's first-choice keeper but the England number one has already made several errors this season. "Whichever keeper plays will have my support," said Pellegrini. "Costel normally plays in the League Cup and FA Cup so it was an important game for him." Asked by journalists for further details about Hart's status, Pellegrini responded: "I have just told you I will think about that on Thursday." Romanian goalie Pantilimon produced a fine save to deny Shola Ameobi in the first half and another to stop Papiss Cisse in extra time. That last save kept City in the game and allowed them to win the tie thanks to late goals from Alvaro Negredo and Edin Dzeko. Hart has been targeted by critics after several important errors, most notably in City's game against Bayern Munich in the Champions League and in England's victory over Scotland at Wembley in August. The Chilean boss said of Pantilimon: "He always has my trust and the trust of all the team - that is why he is here. He is a good player and is not playing too much because Hart played this year and last year but I trust him and for him and for the whole team to keep a clean sheet after six games is very important." Manchester City face Norwich at Etihad Stadium on Saturday, here are the odds for the match at Bet365: Manchester City win - 1/6 Draw - 13/2 Norwich win - 16/1
General Sportsbook News Sports Events Back to articles