Patrick Vieira can play on for another three seasons or so according to Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini.

The former Arsenal and Inter Milan midfielder performed well in City’s victory over Bolton on Tuesday night and Mancini was confident he could continue his form well into his 30s, just as he did in Italy’s Serie A.

"I played until I was 36 and I was still playing well," he said.

"I won the Scudetto at that age, so I see no reason why Patrick can't carry on as well.

"First of all I hope he can play another 15 games for us in the league this season because his performances are going to be very important."