LONDON: Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini insists he has no problem with Mario Balotelli's liking for stirring controversy.

The outspoken Balotelli was at it again this week, declaring in an interview with new Italian newspaper Extra Time, that he was part of the best strikeforce in the world and that Wayne Rooney was not even the number one striker in Manchester.

Maybe it was not the wisest comment from a player who is again sidelined with a knee injury. But Mancini remains unconcerned.

"I haven't read the interview so I don't know what he has said. But he likes to joke sometimes and these things are jokes. We live in a free world. If someone wants to say something, it is better that he does. I respect every opinion.

"We are not in a war. We are free to say what we want."

Balotelli, also known as "Super Mario", is now in the United States stepping up his rehabilitation work on the injury he sustained over Christmas.

It could be another month before the Italian is in action again, when Mancini would like to see him perform to his potential on a regular basis.

"He is continuing to work and maybe he can come back to play in three or four weeks. It is important he shows his talent here. For his future it is important for him to improve and this is the best championship in the world," said Mancini.

Mancini said there had been no progress with any of the potential departures from Eastlands this month. Balotelli's impending return to fitness does make it more likely Emmanuel Adebayor will leave.

But a number of English options are unlikely to hold much appeal for the former Arsenal star and Real Madrid remain the most likely destination, with manager Jose Mourinho apparently keen for Adebayor to replace Gonzalo Higuain, who could miss the remainder of the season following back surgery.

Fulham also expressed definite interest in Shaun Wright-Phillips, although City are looking to ensure there is some commitment to a permanent transfer before they will allow the winger to link up again with old boss Mark Hughes.

Mancini did not entirely rule out the possibility of further purchases, even though club officials cautioned against it.

Meanwhile, veteran midfielder Patrick Vieira is certain City have a bright future because the team are packed with "winners".

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

Although they remain outsiders to be crowned champions in May, it cannot be discounted given the form City 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 Vieira is adamant City will not be found wanting when it comes to the mental side of the game.

"We are a group of winners. You can have all the talent but if you don't have winners in your team it is really difficult to win something. But in every position, we have them. With those kinds of players, the fans can be proud. More importantly, the future looks really good," said the 34-year-old former Arsenal star.

LONDON: Attacker Ashley Young described Aston Villa's capture of striker Darren Bent (above) from Sunderland as a massive signing for the Premier League strugglers.

Bent, who cost the Villans £18 million, is poised to make his debut in tomorrow's home clash with second-placed Manchester City.

"Bent will bring a lot to Villa. He scores goals, that's number one in his game, and he brings other attributes too. But if you do look at his record in front of goal it's very, very impressive," said Young.

"He's been the highest scorer in the Premier League for the past five years apart from Wayne Rooney and Didier Drogba. It's huge for us. He's a massive signing. Everyone is delighted that the club has been able to pull it off.

"I've come across him on international duty and know him really well. He's a top lad. I am sure he will add to what we've got here."

Young believes Bent will have no problem settling in at Villa.

"It's easy for anyone to fit in at our place because we have a terrific team spirit and a real bond. He'll be comfortable straight away. He'll fit in, no problem."

Bent, meanwhile, is hoping he can take over from Young as Villa's penalty-taker.

The 26-year-old missed only three spot-kicks in his entire career — all saved by Tottenham's Heurelho Gomes.

"I've tried to have banter with Young about the penalty situation. I'm sure we'll talk about it and hopefully I'll be able to get onto them.

"But there's nothing in my contract saying that I have to take penalties. If I can take them, I might let Young take them against Spurs!"