Alberto quoted as unlikely City candidate

Last updated : 11 April 2005 By Ben Collins

The Brazilian's side were well beaten by England recently in a World Cup qualifier, just days after they were thrashed 8-0 by Poland, so he could be ready to call time on his stint in Eastern Europe.

And the former World Cup-winning captain was certainly in the spotlight while in England, calling Michael Owen "a midget" after the game (for which he later apologised).

Online bookmakers bet365 have since received a number
of requests for him to be the next City boss, although caretaker manager Stuart Pearce and Gordon Strachan remain favourites.

bet365 spokesman Steve Freeth said: "We received a number of calls before the England game for Alberto to take over from Pearce and the 33/1 was eagerly gobbled up by a number of punters.

“Maybe he was seen speaking to Man City officials before the game because I wouldn’t have had him down for the job in a million years."

Next Permanent Man City Manager

Stuart Pearce, Gordon Strachan 3

Iain Dowie 9/2

Martin O’Neill 6

Carlos Alberto 7

Alan Curbishley, Paul Jewell 8

Sam Allardyce 10

Ronald Koeman 16

Paul Le Guen 25

Neil Warnock 40


Others on request