Last Updated: Fri, 16 Nov 2012 12:38
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini stunned reporters as he walked into a press conference wearing a David Platt mask.
It was the Italian's way of joking with journalists after a couple of fiery exchanges last week. Mancini was irritated by certain questions before and after his side's Champions League draw with Ajax 10 days ago and then did not attend pre- or post-match press conferences for last weekend's clash with Tottenham.
On those occasions first-team coach Platt spoke on his behalf and it was that Mancini was referring to by wearing a mask of the former England international.
"Do you prefer David or me?" Mancini asked after taking his seat.
Mancini lost his temper ahead of the Ajax game when asked about reports linking him with Monaco. Some media then suggested the 47-year-old was feeling the strain after he confronted the referee and clashed with a cameraman following what proved a controversial draw against the Dutch side.
But as he met press again to preview this weekend's game against Aston Villa, the former Inter Milan boss was clearly keen to show he has not lost his sense of humour.
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