City look to Mr Motivator

Keegan should get the best out of his players

BBC Sport Online looks at Manchester City's prospects of a swift return to the Premiership following last season's relegation.

Manchester City are the bookies' favourites for the Division One title.

The Blues have been busy restructuring over the summer following their relegation from the top flight last season.

Kevin Keegan has taken over the managerial reigns from Joe Royle and City fans will be hoping the former England boss can steer the club to success.

  Summer transfers

IN

Eyal Berkovic (Celtic)
Stuart Pearce (West Ham)
Simon Colosimo (South Melbourne Sharks)

OUT

Mark Kennedy (Wolves)
Gareth Taylor (Burnley)
Spencer Prior (Cardiff)
Shaun Holmes (Wrexham)
Andy Morrison (out of contract)

Keegan has a proven track record of winning promotion, although with Newcastle and England he showed he can crack under the spotlight.

He is sure to encourage the team to play attacking, free-flowing football and has brought Eyal Berkovic to the club to provide some midfield flair.

It is likely City's season will progress spectacularly - whether it be in a positive fashion or not.

Keegan's flamboyant approach could produce an all-conquering side which takes the division by storm.

But questions have been asked about the team's lack of steel and discipline, and also about Keegan's tactical awareness.

Stuart Pearce's arrival would seem to be Keegan's attempt to address those potential inadequacies.

The club's huge, loyal following will provide excellent support, but it will be up to the team to produce the performances to ensure the fans have plenty to cheer.

Watching entertaining, attractive football will be a bonus for City fans as long as the team achieves its objective.

But, in the end, nothing but a return to the Premiership will rate as a successful season.