Hargreaves back in action

Manchester City midfielder Owen Hargreaves says he is delighted that he is now back in the game after a three year injury nightmare.

Hargreaves made his debut for new club Manchester City on Wednesday night, opening the scoring in their 2-0 Carling Cup win over Birmingham. Those following the on-line betting will have been impressed.

Hargreaves lasted just short of an hour by boss Roberto Mancini who is understood to want to keep the former Bayern Munich man fresh as he seems him as a potentially key member of the squad.

The energetic midfielder was understandably delighted to be back on the field after such a difficult three years.

“I knew I wasn’t far away, just a few tweaks – every time,” he told City’s official website. “I don’t think people would believe me if I said everything that went on, but I am just happy to be back as I never anticipated in my life I would be out for three years – but I am back and I am happy.

“I think there was a misconception, I just needed to get in the right direction and the staff and everyone has done well, it will just take time to get into the tempo but so far it has been a great.”

Hargreaves joined the Citizens in the summer after being released by their bitter rivals Manchester United. Before his injury problems, the 30-year-old was a key part of the Red Devils line-up, playing a significant part in their Champions league win in 2007-8. Fans of mobile betting will know what a key role he played.

The England International will now be looking to build his form and help City to significant success over the coming season.