Mancini "Fate in our hands"

Roberto Mancini believes Manchester City have control over their own fate and is adamant his side will qualify for the Champions League for the first time in their history.

The Citizens currently lie in fourth place in the Premier League and are two points clear of Tottenham and have a significantly greater goal difference which could be vital come the end of the season.

And Mancini's side will be hoping to avoid a repeat of last season, where they were beaten to fourth place by Tottenham in the last week of the season when Spurs clinched Champions League football with victory at Eastlands.

Mancini has eyed a strong end to the season which he hope will see his side finish in the top four and for them to achieve victory in the FA Cup, which could be City’s first piece of silverware in 35 years if they beat Stoke City in the final.

"It was a good game between Tottenham and Arsenal," he told reporters. "But everything is in our hands.

"We do not depend on Tottenham or other teams. If we win our games we will go in the Champions League.”

Spurs boss Harry Redknapp  has requested that City’s league game against Stoke take place earlier than scheduled as it takes place just days after the FA Cup final which may see the Potters secure Europa League football even if they lose the final, if Roberto Mancini’s side qualify for the Champions League. This has led to speculation that Tony Pulis’ side would not be fully committed to the game.

The Citizen’s boss has refuted these claims as he fully believes in the integrity of every Premier League.

"I have respect for every opinion but I have never seen in the Premier League one team that did not play 100 per cent," he said. "It is impossible."