City boosted by Barry return

Manchester City have been boosted by the news Gareth Barry is making good progress from his injury and should soon be back in the side.

The 31-year-old has yet to figure this season after undergoing a double hernia operation and then suffering a muscle tear, but he should be back pushing for a return sooner rather than later. Barry has stepped up his game time with two run outs for the reserves against Middlesbrough and Liverpool and barring any setbacks he should be available shortly. "I've had two outings with the Elite Development Squad now, and I felt a lot better in the second game [Liverpool] so things are progressing nicely," he told the club's official website. "I had a double hernia operation which meant an initial four weeks out, but then I tore a muscle in rehab which set me back a little bit, but I don't think I'm too far off now - touch wood! "I'm just taking things one day at a time but I'm feeling quite strong again which is really good." The return of Barry will be a huge boost for Mancini who has been concerned with the way City have conceded five goals in the opening three games of the season.