Former England coach Graham Taylor has urged Roberto Mancini not to allow Manchester City to go into their shell.

Taylor wrote in his column for the Daily Express: "Without a doubt he will be hurting, but it will be his responsibility to give a lead, and winning the league will go a long, long way to offsetting the disappointment of what seems almost certain Champions League failure.

"With the complex character of a number of the players in his squad, it is difficult to guess their response, but I sincerely hope Mancini does not change the more attacking policy he has employed this season, looking to win games right from the start. I also hope that all of the City players recognise their responsibilities to themselves, their club, their manager and their supporters.

"Yes, it is easy to mention Mario Balotelli, who on many occasions gives the impression of feeling he has more important things to be doing than playing football for City. But Mancini needs all of his players to be onside with him.

"It is also well worth remembering that this squad has only just been put together. Many people have a dislike of how much money has been spent and how much is available but, whether we like it or not, the manager has to build a team - and that is not something that happens overnight."