Sven admits selection headache

Hart to start against Spurs

By Peter Fraser   Last updated: 17th December 2007

Manchester City manager Sven Goran Eriksson

Eriksson Selection quandary

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Sven Goran Eriksson admits he is finding it difficult to decide on his first choice Manchester City goalkeeper.

Joe Hart is set to get the chance to impress in the Carling Cup quarter-final at Eastlands on Tuesday as City manager Eriksson rotates his shot-stopping options.

Andreas Isaksson has got the nod in City's previous four matches and Kasper Schmeichel, who is currently out on loan at Cardiff, began the season as Eriksson's No.1.

And the Swede admits he is finding it a tough task to decide between the three, but he has revealed that it was always planned to give Hart the opportunity in the cup.

Attitude

"It is very close between them, although we have planned for a long time to play Hart in this game," said Eriksson.

"They have been prepared for it (the decision) and will no doubt be waiting on Wednesday to hear what I have to say.

"I have been pleased with the attitude of all three goalkeepers. They have been fantastic, very professional and are working extremely hard.

"It is difficult choosing a No.1, but I have to do it. The fault is not mine. The fault is the players'. They are too good.

Solution

"I wanted to give Andreas Isaksson a run, because it is important not to judge people without giving them a chance.

"It is very difficult for a goalkeeper if they are playing one match in, one match out. It is not a good solution."

Eriksson also confirmed he is set to field his strongest team against Tottenham, which will mean Italian striker Rolando Bianchi retains his place in the starting line-up after scoring his second goal in two games in the 4-2 victory against Bolton at the weekend.

Bianchi has stated his determination to carve out a career at City after struggling to secure a regular place this season following his £8.8million summer move from Reggina and Eriksson has indicated he will be given a start on Tuesday.

Eriksson said: "It will be hard to put him back on the bench. He will start."