Can Manchester City Succeed Without Elano?

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If Manchester City are going to fulfil their aim of finishing in the Premier League top four, it’s clear that they need to start addressing their away form. Since an opening day victory at Upton Park, City’s performances on the road have been a mixed bag, with just two points to show from five matches.

To compound matters, SkySports reports that they’ll be without star Brazilian midfielder Elano for Saturday’s trip to the JJB Stadium:

The Brazilian lasted just 58 minutes of last week’s 2-1 win over Reading after being on World Cup duty in South America.

He has now picked up a hamstring problem and will not be involved in the weekend’s Premier League fixture at the JJB Stadium.

City boss Sven Goran Eriksson said: “He is having a scan and we do not know at the moment how long he will be out for.”

This injury might be a blessing in disguise for the Citizens, who perhaps need to start relying less on their South American playmaker in order for things to happen. In addition, Elano’s style of play can have far less impact in an away match, where the home team are far less likely to sit back. Wigan are sure to be adopting physical ‘in your face’ tactics from the kick-off on Saturday.

While City got badly punished when they decided to try and play flowing football at Stamford Bridge. They’re riding high at the moment but their 100% home record surely won’t last much longer and it’s time for them to demonstrate what they can deliver away from home.