Brendan Rodgers rubbishes Mancini’s low blow

Swansea City boss Brendan Rodgers has downplayed Roberto Mancini’s claim that the English Premier League newcomers’ upcoming trip to Old Trafford will make for an “easy game” for Manchester United.

I’m not really sure what Mancini was trying to do, but a few different possibilities do come to mind.

Reverse psychology is at the top of the list. In other words, Mancini may be claiming that United will have an easy task when they play host to the Swans, but he’ll surely have his fingers crossed hoping for the improbable to happen.

Another possibility is that the City boss wants to light a fire in Swansea to ensure that the Swans give the Red Devils a go at Old Trafford on May 6.

Now then, Rodgers’ response to Mancini’s comment was brilliant.

“What Roberto said was probably a bit tongue-in-cheek in fairness,” said Rodgers.

“I think what we have shown over the course of the season is our competitive nature.

“We might be a way down the scale in terms of many things at this level, but one thing that’s guaranteed is that when you play Swansea City it’s going to be a competitive game and a difficult game.

“I’m sure Roberto knows that.”

It’s hard to argue with Rodgers, especially since he’s led the Swans to 43 points through 35 league games.

Remember, three of Swansea’s 43 points came against Manchester City on March 11, when the Swans defeated Mancini’s men 1-0 in front of 20,510 witnesses at the Liberty Stadium.

In addition, Swansea gave Manchester United all that they could handle in the Red Devils’ 1-0 win in the reverse fixture at Liberty Stadium.

Had Scott Sinclair not missed the target with the goal gaping at his mercy in the 22nd minute, the Swans could have earned a historic point against the reigning champions.

However, it was just not meant to be. So what’s written in the stars for the next time these two clubs meet on May 6?

Well, that depends on whether United can get a result at the Etihad Stadium on Monday, April 30.

You may recall that City demolished United 6-1 at Old Trafford in the reverse fixture.

I assure you that Sir Alex Ferguson will make the proper adjustments not to concede six this time around.

With that said, expect a physical encounter when these two bitter rivals meet on Monday, with United earning a hard fought point and perhaps the 2011-12 Premier League title on City’s ground.

Which Manchester club will win the second league installment of the Manchester derby?