Eriksson defends players

Eriksson: Can't fault effort

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Sven-Goran Eriksson refused to criticise his Manchester City players following their goalless home draw with Wigan Athletic.

City had hoped to use the City of Manchester Stadium clash to secure just their second win in eight Premier League outings.

However, a dour 90-minute affair only resulted in a 0-0 draw, although Eriksson could not fault his players for effort and endeavour.

The former England boss felt that had City got their noses in front then it would have been a very different outcome.

"I can't go into the dressing room and tell the players they didn't try, they didn't work, the spirit was not good and things like that because I think it was, until the end of the match," said the Swede.

Very difficult

"You have to score a goal, then it would have been another type of football. Congratulations to Wigan. It is very difficult to break them down.

"I am disappointed with the result but as long as we fight and try I think as a manager you are okay and you shouldn't accuse the players of not trying.

"You can understand from the first minute there will be a lot of occasions when we will not create if we do not score a goal.

"They are very good, physically strong team and as soon as they lose the ball they have eight or nine men behind the ball - which is very good for them."