Eriksson: Putting the record straight

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• Kasper Schmeichel
• Kelvin Etuhu

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Manchester City chief Sven Goran Eriksson has reassured Kasper Schmeichel and Kelvin Etuhu that they have futures at the club.

The futures of the young duo have been the subject of speculation after both players were allowed to join owner Thaksin Shinawatra on a trip to Thailand even though the season is at such a crucial stage.

Eriksson has rejected the rumours and insists the pair remain in his plans for the long term.

The Swede admitted he was keen to farm the duo out on loan so that they can get some much-needed regular action under their belts and confirmed both players were out in Thailand to help promote the club.

"They wanted two young players to train with some football clubs and promote youth football," Eriksson told Sky Sports News.

"They are training there as they are not involved in this moment in the first team. That is why we chose those two players, they are doing good causes for the club over there."

When asked if both players could be deemed surplus to requirements, Eriksson said: "No absolutely not. I have always said those two players we can count on them for the future.

"Probably from March they will go on loan to some other clubs because we want them to play football more than they will do here.

"If you talk about goalkeepers, I have decided who is the first one and second one and that makes life very difficult for Kasper of course.

"By taking in Benjani, Caicedo, and Castillo life is more difficult for Kelvin in this moment so that is [why they have gone to Thailand]."