We were unlucky against City but showed we can mix it with the big boys

8:57am Thursday 24th January 2008

THE two Manchester City games were very frustrating and disappointing - we should have won both times.

We had more than enough chances and played them off the park, particularly in the league game on Sunday, but we didn't make the most of our opportunities.

It's very disappointing to go out of the FA Cup - heart breaking to be honest, especially after being the better side - because it's a great competition and something that we are always definately looking to do well in.

West Ham have a good tradition in the cup and it is something the fans would love to win.

I think we were very unlucky because their goal was definately offside. I tried to clear the ball and was on the floor. I think I was also the last man and Darius was behind me.

There does seem to be confusion whether players are active or not active in the build up, but it is not my place to say.

These things happen and I guess it just wasn't meant to be.

But, to take some positives out of it, these two games have showed that we can compete with the top sides. City are a good team and have been in the top four, or thereabouts, for most of the season. And we are good enough to challenge that.

On another positive note, we have a ten-day break between the game and Liverpool on Wednesday.

Personally it will be good for me. I will be doing a lot of maintenance and strength work over the week to build my hamstring and legs. I've played a lot of games in a short space of time since coming back from injury so it will be a much needed break As a squad it will also be a massive boost. We've got some great players at the club, and a lot of them have been out injured, some for a long time.

A few of the players have also played every game and need a rest - so it gives time us some to get a few players back in and for the ones with knocks to recover.

We could even have a few back in time to take on Liverpool. They're a great club but at the moment things are not going right off the pitch so it may be a good time to play them.

They really are a quality side though. These are the type of games that you want to be in the Premier League for and to play aganst players like Torres and Gerrard We're at home aswell and it is a game we are all looking forward to.