City skipper Vincent Kompany has dismissed claims that the Blues defence is showing signs of frailty.

The back line has come in from some criticism after conceding five goals in their opening three games, leading some to suggest there are issues at the back, but the Belgium international told Sky Sports News he’s not concerned.

"It doesn't matter. We've always proved to be solid come difficult times," he asserted.

"Come December, January and February we'll show it. At this time everyone tries to play the game nicely.

"We left ourselves exposed but at the end of the season we won't do that."

Meanwhile, there is widespread acclaim for the in-form Carlos Tevez who scored his 50^th Premier League goal for the club on Saturday.

“He is a player reborn,” declared The Sun’s Neil Custis.

“Once again the club has the player they so famously snatched from noisy neighbours Manchester United.

“A world-class striker who has now scored in each of City’s first four games this season including the Community Shield.”

Finally this morning, Mario Balotelli has been omitted from the Italy squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Bulgaria and Malta.

As reported here, the striker will undergo a minor eye operation to correct a recurring problem.

The treatment isn’t expected to side-line the 22-year-old for too long and it’s hoped he will return after the international break – of course we will keep you up to date on that.