In the early season, we were tipped to secure a Top 4 spot come May. One of the main reasons for this was our much reported squad depth. At the start of the season it looked like we had at least two quality players for each position. But after our rigorous clear-out in January, the squad is thinner. And with injuries to a number of key players, Mancini will struggle to name a full bench of senior players for tomorrow.

Recent injuries have left the squad looking increasingly thin. In fact, Mancini has only 16 outfield players available for tomorrow’s Europa League match after news of yet another injury.

Micah Richards’ calf strain has left Mancini with only 16 outfield players to choose from for tomorrow’s game with Aris. Richards’ injury couldn’t have come at a worse time; the right-back has been in inspired form of late, playing some of his best football for months. However, he has fallen injured again and will definitely miss the Aris game. Richards’ replacement is Reece Wabara, the England U-20 defender.

Richards joins de Jong, Given, Johnson and Milner on the treatment table. Given and Adam Johnson are the long term absentees whilst the club are hopeful de Jong and Milner can return in the next couple of weeks. Nigel’s ankle has been troubling him and he has been ruled out for the Aris and Fulham games. His progress has been slow and Mancini is growing increasingly anxious, knowing that he will need the Dutch enforcer fit for the packed run-in.

Information about Milner on the other hand, is limited. The midfielder has a hamstring problem but it is unknown to how serious the strain is. I expect that it’s just a tightness and he will be back soon. However, there is some good news. After missing the weekend’s FA Cup game with a swollen knee, Michael Johnson returns tonight for the EDS against Bolton. And earning his first start alongside Johnson in midfield is Gai Assulin, the Israeli playmaker.