Owen Hargreaves does not expect to rush straight back into action with Man City, accepting he is short of match fitness.
Midfielder seeking match fitness at City
New signing Owen Hargreaves does not expect to rush straight back into action with Manchester City, accepting he is short of match fitness.
The injury-plagued former England midfielder is hoping to revive his career at City after being released by local rivals Manchester United in the summer.
The 30-year-old has penned a one-year deal at the Etihad Stadium but, after being restricted to just four appearances in the last three seasons, needs to bolster his fitness.
That means a return to action against former club Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League later this month is unlikely.
Rhythm
Hargreaves told the club's
official website: "It's important that you get back into a rhythm of playing football, and I haven't done that for a while.
"There's tons of games to come this season in various competitions.
"I've never not played in the Champions League. It's pretty much been standard for me every season.
"Bayern is a wonderful club - I had a great time there and won the Champions League.
"They are going to be tough opposition and it will be an exciting game for the club."
Calgary-born Hargreaves made his name with Bayern and shone in the 2006 World Cup for England before joining United in an £18million deal the following year.
He had attracted interest from West Brom after United opted not to renew his contract but feels joining City, expected to mount a serious Premier League title bid this season, is a greater challenge.
Challenges
Hargreaves, aware competition for places will be fierce, added: "I like to measure myself agains the best and I've always taken on challenges - I left Canada for Germany as a kid, I've left comfortable situations.
"It's a fantastic group of players here, and I hope that I'll be a good addition to these guys to help out.
"I've lived in Manchester for four years and this move just fits. You've got to trust your instincts."
