Vieira talks up mental strength

After advancing into the FA Cup fourth round by beating Leicester City on Tuesday, City will turn their attentions back to the Premier League on Saturday when they visit Aston Villa.

Although they remain outsiders to be crowned champions in May, it cannot be discounted given the form Roberto Mancini’s men have been in recently.

With the Europa League to play for as well, that long wait for a trophy seems to be drawing to an end.

And Patrick Vieira is adamant the Blues will not be found wanting when it comes to the mental side of the game.

“We are a group of winners,” said the veteran midfielder.

“You can have all the talent but if you don’t have winners in your team it is really difficult.

“But in every position, we have them. With those kinds of players, the fans can be proud. More importantly, the future looks really good.”

If, as expected, Vieira leaves City at the end of the season, he wants to leave with something tangible to show for his efforts.

“I don’t know what will happen at the end of the season, but I want to win some silverware,” he said.