MANCHESTER // Roberto Mancini has made an impassioned defence of his blunt style of management, arguing that public criticism can be beneficial for his players.
The Manchester City manager is a rarity in openly rebuking his players and, while many of his counterparts make their comments behind closed doors, his outspoken approach has been controversial.
But Mancini believes world-class players should have the mental strength to deal with it and said that their ability and lucrative contracts mean they have a duty to accept responsibility for their mistakes.
The Italian has taken Joe Hart to task for recent mistakes and has criticised Samir Nasri for his inconsistency but he remains sure that his players understand his willingness to tell the truth.
He said: "I'm not rude with my players. I say what I think sometimes and if I think it could be good for my players to understand they could play better and they can do more, I say this because I don't lie.
"I say what I think and sometimes it's important that a player takes responsibility because when you are a top player you earn a lot of money and you should play at 100 per cent always."
Mancini believes his policy of honesty is in City's best interests and, while he is accused of being cold, said he cares deeply for his players.
"I don't criticise my players after every game," he said.
"I love all of my players and I can do everything for my players but I want them to do everything for the club."
Mancini has found fault with his squad as City's title challenge has faltered but has also accepted that he has made mistakes.
He says it is vital that everyone is accountable.
He said: "I don't like players who never think it's their fault. These players can't play with me because this is impossible. I want strong players that are upset with me when they don't play but after that show me on the pitch that they deserve to play."
Mancini has urged his charges to adopt the attitude he displayed during his playing days, when he won Serie A with both Sampdoria and Lazio.
"When I was a player I always took responsibility," he said. "When I didn't play well, I said 'sorry I didn't play well and will do my best in the next game', and it should be like this."
While Nasri has been a source of frustration, Mancini said he is trying to help the Frenchman realise his potential and said the midfielder has no problem with him.
He said: "I think that he can do better because he has quality, technique and he's strong. For me, Samir is a top player and a top player should play well in every game. Samir is one of the best players in England."
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