Roberto Mancini expects tough Aston Villa test

Roberto Mancini has said that he expects a difficult game against Aston Villa tomorrow.

The Italian manager has dismissed the idea that protests from the Villa fans will weaken Alex McLeish's side.

A section of disgruntled supporters from the Midlands club are planning to demonstrate against manager McLeish prior to the clash with title-chasing City, but Mancini does not think the Villa players will be unsettled.

When asked if City could capitalise on any uncertainty, the former Inter boss said: "We would hope to but I don't know this. It won't change our opinion, it will still be a difficult game.

"They lost their last game against Newcastle and so we will need to play a good game if we want to win against Aston Villa.

"When the game starts their supporters will support their team, always."

City sit one point behind Manchester United, with a game in hand.