Manuel Pellegrini plays down Joe Hart omission

Joe Hart: Looks on from the bench during the 4-2 win over Hull City

Manuel Pellegrini played down his decision to hand Willy Cabellero a Premier League debut in place of England No.1 Joe Hart.

Cabellero was handed a starting role in the 4-2 win over Hull City following his appearance in the 7-0 Capital One Cup win over Sheffield Wednesday.

The Argentine was brought to City as a credible challenger for the gloves in the summer from Pellegrini’s former club Malaga.

"I think for Willy it was good to play not just one game but to play two in a row," said the City manager.

"Joe played eight games in 32 days, a lot of games for a goalkeeper. I have a squad of 22, 23 players and I make rotations because I think it is better for the team.

"In this case I think it was good for Willy."