Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel believes Roberto Mancini should take blame for Manchester City's failure to compete with the league leaders this season. Schmeichel says Mancini's constant public criticism of senior players has contributed to his team's disappointing season.

He told Sky Sports: "You will never see United manager Sir Alex Ferguson in the media taking problems he has, or the squad has, or the club has, into the open.

"Never ever. But you do see that at Manchester City.

"Some players have been heavily criticised by the manager in public. Perhaps Mancini brings that from Italy. Perhaps you do that there, where there are different expectations.

"But that does not work here. I can understand that some of the players have been angry or disappointed with that type of treatment. Sometimes they will take that on to the pitch and maybe not play 100 per cent for the manager.

"That never happens with Sir Alex Ferguson. Never. Sir Alex is so consistent with his management. He manages each person differently but you know exactly where you are with him. You know exactly what is required. Manchester City have not had that."