Hargreaves seeks match-fitness

Owen Hargreaves concedes he will not be able to rush straight back into action with Manchester City.

The injury-plagued former England midfielder is hoping to revive his career at City after being released by rivals Manchester United in the summer.

The 30-year-old has signed a one-year deal at the Etihad Stadium but, after being restricted to just four appearances in the last three seasons, accepts he is short of match fitness.

That means a return to action against former club Bayern Munich in the Champions League later this month is unlikely.

Hargreaves said: “It’s important that you get back into a rhythm of playing football, and I haven’t done that for a while.

“There’s tons of games to come this season in various competitions.

“I’ve never not played in the Champions League. It’s pretty much been standard for me every season.

“Bayern is a wonderful club – I had a great time there and won the Champions League.

“They are going to be tough opposition and it will be an exciting game for the club.”