Mancini hails super Mario
Roberto Mancini hailed Mario Balotelli’s performance in Sunday’s 5-0 thrashing of Sunderland as “perfect” – even though the striker did not get his name on the scoresheet at Eastlands. Related Stories Mourinho won’t bid for Bale Two-match ban for Grant Hammers investigate racism claims Owen hoping for new deal at United Rooney charged for outburst

Monday’s gossip column
Cesc Fabregas unhurt after minor car accident, Liverpool win race for French winger, plus other rumours

Manchester City 5 Sunderland 0- Blues run riot at Eastlands
Manchester City moved up to third in the Barclays Premier League with an emphatic victory over Sunderland at Eastlands.