LET'S ALL LAUGH AT CITY

Keegan was involved in furious rows with a number of players on Monday after
asking their opinions on why the club was in disarray.

The bust-up came at a team meeting he had called following the 1-0 home defeat by Everton two days earlier which left City with still just a single Premiership win this season.

The manager told his squad it was a chance to air their views - but did not
bargain on their frank responses.

Robbie Fowler, Danny Mills and Joey Barton were among those who gave
Keegan a full run down of grievances, which included being unhappy with the
direction of the club, the way training was conducted and the approach to
discipline.

Several were angry Nicolas Anelka appeared to be given special treatment by
Keegan. His response was a succession of verbal volleys, although the disputes
did not became physical.

Fowler is understood to have told Keegan he no longer enjoys playing for the
team, but plans to see out the two years left on his contract.

Although Keegan has been told by chairman John Wardle he will not be sacked if City lose at Crystal Palace on Saturday, defeat in the Carling Cup against
Barnsley three days later would seal his fate.

Wardle, a close friend and staunch supporter of Keegan, is aware of the
simmering discontent among the players but will give his manager one last
chance.

Keegan has spent more than £50million in his time at City but the growing feeling among fans and some influential squad members is that he has taken the club as far as he can.

Wardle and business partner David Makin, who between them own a third of the club, now realise their unstinting faith in Keegan must be reflected in results if he is to remain in charge.

That is why defeat at Selhurst Park would push Keegan closer to the brink and
further isolate his dwindling support within the club.