Mancini refuses to blame faltering Manchester City form on tiredness

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has demanded his side remains united in its bid to win the Premier League title and shrug off the signs of fatigue that have affected its performances in recent weeks.

City has drawn its last two matches and has fallen five points behind leader Manchester United, which could pull a further three points clear on Saturday should it beat Queens Park Rangers at Old Trafford.

Arsenal hosts City on Sunday and Mancini acknowledges that the squad cannot use tiredness as an excuse should it fail to haul in Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

“After seven months it could be that we have some players tired but it is not only us. The other teams have tired players,” the Italian coach admitted to reporters.

“In this moment it is important to be strong.

“It is easy to be together when you are on the top for seven months and you win every game. But you can pass by these difficult moments.”

Sergio Aguero is set to return for the Blues after missing the last two games with an ankle injury, while Joleon Lescott has recovered from a groin problem.

Mancini explained: “I think we will recover Joleon and probably Sergio.

“I don't think we have injuries for Sunday. Sergio is fit, he has started to train.”