Mancini ready for two tough months

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini believes his side will take some stopping if they can emerge unscathed from the next two months.

The Barclays Premier League leaders face a test of their title credentials with tough fixtures against Chelsea and Arsenal before Christmas. January provides three clashes against Liverpool - including the two-legged Carling Cup semi-final - a visit from Tottenham and the start of the FA Cup defence against arch-rivals Manchester United.

Mancini said: "We have done well but the season is long. Now we have two difficult games against Chelsea and Arsenal. I have said before the next two months will be important months."

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