Manchester City coach David Platt denies manager Roberto Mancini blanked Stoke City counterpart Tony Pulis after their 1-1 draw.

It was claimed Mancini did not shake his opposite number Pulis' hand after the game, such was his indignation. He was reportedly fuming over an aerial challenge by Dean Whitehead on David Silva.

Attempting to explain his boss' absence from the post-match proceedings, City first team coach Platt said: "It's not a case of being too angry - he's just wary that he might say something that gets him in hot water.

"It's about the way the game unfolded. It is very difficult when you come here and sometimes you look for a bit of protection.

"It's a bit hot afterwards but once he's calmed down he'll be fine.

"You know what he is like and if he comes in and something goes out where it is lost in translation..."

Asked directly about the handshake, Platt replied: "He has got to do what he has got to do."