Arsenal hero Martin Keown senses Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is beginning to lose it in his mind games with Manchester United rival Sir Alex Ferguson. Mancini's title hopes were hit by defeat at Sunderland on the weekend.

And Keown wrote in the Daily Mail: "I wonder whether Mancini is being a bit too clever and has now sent a message to Sir Alex Ferguson that his team might not be capable of winning the title.

"The other concern for the Italian is the way he handled himself.

"He was as animated as I have seen him on the touchline and he looked like the frustration was getting to him. He then disappeared when Sunderland scored the winner.

"He seemed angry and should be mindful of how he comes across as Ferguson will turn the screw if he senses any weakness.

"Mancini had success very quickly at Inter Milan, winning the Italian title in his second and third seasons, but he has had to be more patient at City.

"No-one would have expected him to win the title yet but he looks like he is expecting it and was getting frustrated with his players."