Manchester City owner Thaksin Shinawatra believes UEFA Cup qualification is now a realistic aim for the Blues.

Although the authorities in his native Thailand continue to pursue him over various fraud allegations, Shinawatra could hardly have a better start to life as a Premier League boss.

High-flying City are currently third in the table and head to Portsmouth on Sunday looking to put clear daylight between themselves and one of their major rivals for a top six spot.

For, while even the most optimistic among the long-suffering Blues support accept a Champions League place is out of reach, qualification for Europe for the first time - Fair Play competitions excepted - in almost 30 years, is definitely within reach.

"When I first started to discuss buying Manchester City we hoped to be in the top 10 but now I think we can get into the UEFA Cup," Shinawatra told ESPN.

"We are a sleeping giant. I am glad to be the one to wake that giant."