Lescott wants to look forward

Following the derby defeat to Manchester United, City are back in action against Aris Salonika, a club with a 24-match unbeaten run in European competition stretching back over 40 years at their Kleanthis Vikelidis Stadium.

Ahead of this first-leg match in the round of 32, Lescott said: "I am aware of their record and it will not be easy. But we are confident we can beat anyone."

He added: "We have to get United out of our system and focus on this match. It helps we have a game so soon, so let's try to get back to winning ways. We don't feel the Premier League title has gone but is will be much harder."

Lescott found himself in Wayne Rooney's slipstream as the England striker fired the spectacular winner at Old Trafford on Saturday.

He said: "I spoke with Nemanja Vidic after the game and while we were disappointed, I do not think we could have done anything about it. I don't think Wayne will be able to do that again so soon. It was one of those goals by special players. They do big things and score big goals at the right time."

Manager Roberto Mancini is convinced his side will suffer no lasting effects from the derby defeat.

"Do I think we are still mentally strong? I do not think that will be a problem," said the Italian coach.

"We played very well against United and the defeat was hard to take. But now we have another important game to focus on. We have three days to prepare for this game and we know it will be very difficult. Aris are a good team with good players and have already beaten Atletico Madrid.

"But this is an important time for us and need to start a winning run. If we play like we did against United we can win a lot of games."

Source: PA

Source: PA