Football
Jonathan Smith, Manchester City correspondent 7y

Yaya Toure believes Man City will thrive vs. Arsenal, Chelsea in London

Manchester City face three trips to London that could define their season and Yaya Toure believes it could suit them to be in the capital.

After the international break, City face Arsenal and Chelsea in the space of four days with the games potentially pivotal in deciding where they finish in the Premier League table.

Pep Guardiola's side then return to London on April 23 to face the Gunners in an FA Cup semifinal which represents both sides only hopes of silverware this season.

But City have a better record away from the Etihad than at home this season and Toure says they could find it easier to play away as the opposition are more likely to come out and attack.

"We've been very strong away, we have more space," Toure told reporters. "We're delighted to play in big stadiums because we have the space to play. We hope we can take all six points because this league is so difficult.

"Teams know how we play at home and always close us down. Most of the time they use the counter-attack. We have to be aware when we lose the ball they are going to go fast and counter-attack. They are going to be quick and do some damage."

Toure has remained in Manchester during the international break after retiring from playing for the Ivory Coast in September.

But many of his teammates have set off to various destinations around the world and Toure is hoping they return safely with Pablo Zabaleta and Bacary Sagna already suffering injuries.

"I'm concerned about the players who go to the national team. It's been so tough this last month -- I hope our players come back fit," he added.

"Arsenal and Chelsea are tough games, we have the chance to come a little bit closer to the top. If we can get points there it will be brilliant."

Toure returned to the starting lineup for City's 1-1 draw with Liverpool after being left out the Champions League defeat to Monaco four days earlier.

Many pundits were surprised by his omission and while Toure says he was disappointed, he understands the manager has to make tough calls.

"As a football player you always want to be play, to be part of it. But you have to understand it's the manager who decides," he added.

"Me, I'm a player who always prepares myself to be ready. Of course it's always disappointing when you draw or lose and you're not involved. But that's the mentality at the top level.

"You know you are not going to play all the games but you have to be ready. If we go a long way in the competitions, it can be 50 games in a season. You have to be ready when you are needed."

^ Back to Top ^