Pearce stands by Anelka decision

22 december 2006, 11:40

Koen Freriks

Stuart Pearce believes Manchester City were right not to move in when former striker Nicolas Anelka became available in the summer.

Instead the much-travelled Frenchman secured an 8million move to Bolton from Fenerbahce, and he will now line up against City in the Barclays Premiership on Saturday in a game both teams need points from for different reasons. While Pearce's side are only three points of a relegation place and finding goals hard to come by, Bolton are riding high in fifth spot.

Pearce said: "Anelka had his time at this club and probably needed to move on. He is a good player and an exceptional talent. He plays with flair. What has surprised me is he has not stayed at various clubs longer than he has."