Martin O'Neill 'surprised' by Roberto Mancini comments

By Mark Langshaw, Reporter | 28 April 2012

Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill says that he was "surprised" by recent comments from Roberto Mancini dubbing his side "easy" opponents.

Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill has hit out at Manchester City coach Roberto Mancini after the Italian dubbed the Black Cats "easy" opponents.

The Sky Blues manager previously claimed that Manchester United are in the driving seat in the title race because their final games are against Swansea City and the Wearsiders.

Speaking to the The Telegraph, O'Neill said that he was 'surprised' by the remarks, and pointed out that recent results prove them to be untrue.

"It took me by surprise because I had to check that the teams [United] have to play beat to Manchester City, like Swansea and ourselves," he said.

"We have taken four points off Manchester City, but they have actually lost five against us this season. He had obviously forgotten to check the fixtures list properly."

Both Sunderland and Swansea have recorded victories over City this season. O'Neill's side also came from 3-1 down to draw level against them at the Etihad Stadium last month.

City and United will go head to head at the Etihad on Monday night.