Eriksson and Manchester City Still Searching For the Right Mix

Since June, when Manchester City hired Sven-Goran Eriksson as manager, club supporters have been in an unusual state of euphoria. 

Eight new players in the summer transfer window have helped to create the "Sven Revolution".  After 15 matches, the Blues sit fifth in the table with 30 points—and Sven is pondering what he will do in January. 

Recent injuries to City's midfield and the lack of production from the strikers has shown that City is still a club in a building process. 

Rumors have swriled around City quite a bit, but the one rumor that seems to be the talk of Eastlands is that of Peter Crouch. The Liverpool striker has seen inconsistent playing time all season long, and it is rumored that he wants to play for a club where he will be on the pitch everyday. 

This move is dependant on a few things.  First off: Liverpool is still in the UEFA Champions League—if they are to advance to the knock-out phase of the tournament, don't look for them to give up Crouch easily.  If they are eliminated, they may look to unload some salaries, and with Crouch's contract renewal looming, they may want to move him and get something for him. 

Secondly, Liverpool's ownership may be looking to offload salary anyways with the cost of their new ground on the rise.  Benitez has said that Crouch is not for sale, but it is my bet that Peter Crouch will be wearing blue come January if Liverpool fail to advance to the knockout round. 

Outside of the transfer news and flying rumors is the surprise start to the season, which has carried through most of the first 15 matches.  Aside from the 6-0 drubbing at Stamford Bridge, the Blues have played a brand of football that fans would never have dreamed of last season. 

Sitting at 30 points and in fifth position in the table, the Blues are looking to lock up a spot in Europe.  The club is also still in the running for the Carling Cup, and for silverware starved Blues, even the League Cup would satisfy their thirst. 

For City fans, the whirlwind ride since last season has been fun—and it isn't over. 

Manchester City is a club on the rise in the Premier League.  It is my belief that they are two or three players away from reaching the elite status which we crave—and it is Sven-Goran Eriksson who will lead the Blues to the Promised Land.