Distin wants French recognition

Sylvain Distin is hoping for an international call-up after a successful season.

The City skipper has hailed the club's progression since Stuart Pearce took temporary charge following the departure of Kevin Keegan, as the Premiership outfit are in with a realistic chance of qualifying for next year's Uefa Cup.

The strong stopper has been a key player for City as they have risen up the table to lie just three points behind seventh-placed Tottenham, and remains hopeful that his settled situation at Eastlands can improve his international prospects.

"To be picked for my country would be a bonus and would make me happy because everyone dreams of playing for his country," said Distin.

"If not, I will still be happy playing at City, maybe because I am so happy here it will improve my chances with France.

"I haven't given up hope."

Pearce has openly declared his interest in occupying the City hot seat on a full-time basis, and has certainly advanced his cause after going unbeaten for the last six games.

Distin put the club's progression down to a more rigorous work ethic at Eastlands, and held out hope that Pearce could lead the side to what would be an impressive European qualification.

"A few months ago no one here could have thought we would be in this situation, potentially going into the last match playing for a place in the Uefa Cup.

"But I don't want to put pressure on us, we just keep doing what we have been doing these past few weeks and hope we get our reward.

"I like to work hard and we are working a lot harder now, there is a different mentality in the team and we are fitter."