Kidd replaces axed Mancini

Brian Kidd has been told Manchester City can't take it easy in their final two games as they look to guarantee runners-up spot in the Premier League this term.

The Blues' assistant manager will be in charge for Tuesday's visit to Reading and also the final-day home clash against Norwich City.

Kidd was the only person to be retained from the backroom team at the Etihad following the sacking of Roberto Mancini late on Monday night.

The Italian paid the ultimate price for a tame surrender of the title crown they had secured the previous campaign and Kidd has the unenviable task of trying to pick up the City squad after Saturday's shock FA Cup Final defeat to Wigan Athletic.

The Blues need one more point to finish second in the pecking order and Kidd held talks on Monday about his remit.

There will be no suggestion of blooding any fringe players and he will name a strong side to take on the relegated Royals in a game City can be backed at 8.00 to win 2-1.

James Milner, 17.00 to open the scoring against Nigel Adkins' Reading side, is set to come back in and start, possibly at the expense of David Silva, who has been struggling for full fitness after a recent injury lay-off.

And Micah Richards will replace Pablo Zabaleta who picked up a one-game suspension for his red card at Wembley.

City are 3.00 to win the 2013/14 Premier League title, with Manchester United 2.87 to successfully defend their crown.

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