Vieira ban adds to City´s problems

Manchester City midfielder Patrick Vieira will miss the Premier League match against Liverpool on Sunday as he begins a three-match ban for violent conduct.

France star Vieira was charged by the FA on Wednesday after appearing to kick Stoke’s Glenn Whelan between the legs during Tuesday’s 1-1 Premier League draw at the Britannia Stadium.

He accepted the charge on Thursday and was banned by the Football Association on Friday.

As well as the match against Champions League rivals Liverpool, Vieira will also miss the fixtures against leaders Chelsea and the FA Cup fifth round replay against Stoke.

“Patrick made a mistake as far as I am concerned,” said City manager Roberto Mancini.

“He will now miss three important matches. It is a big problem for me, as he is experienced, and for Patrick, as he needs games.”

City’s Martin Petrov is out with a knee injury while striker Carlos Tevez is still in Argentina dealing with a domestic matter.