Manchester City v Groclin City: Kevin Keegan has defended the off-field activities of his Manchester City squad ahead of the UEFA Cup second-round game against Groclin of Poland.

But he stated: "Players have got to be responsible and professional and let their talking be done on the football field. That's what we'll do here."

Some members of the squad attended an Essex nightclub following the Carling Cup victory against QPR at Loftus Road last week.

Striker Robbie Fowler was pictured smoking and clutching a bottle of beer in a Sunday newspaper, prompting some adverse publicity for the player, the club and the game in general.

Keegan attempted to draw a line under the situation yesterday at the club's training ground.

"The players didn't break any club rules by the way," he said. "So there is not really a case to answer.

"You have got to handle it properly. I think we have done that. We have done it internally.

"It is very difficult for professional footballers to go out and even half enjoy themselves. They have got to try and find where the balance is.

"I am sure what happened last week just underlines that not just for this football club but everyone in country.

"There is a vendetta against professional footballers at the moment. A lot of things are not quite right. I am a football manager and we just get on with playing."

City go into the game in buoyant mood following the 2-0 victory at Southampton at the weekend. Keegan said: "I am pleased with the way we are playing. Apart from Wolves, we've applied ourselves well.

"This team is coming together. We have got to believe we can become one of the big sides in the country."

City got to this stage after knocking out Welsh minnows TNS and Belgian side Lokeren but Keegan believes Groclin are made of sterner stuff.

"They are a good side and have players of international quality," he said. "It is going to be a good test for us. It is a tough draw but there were tougher ones out there.

"I don't think they will come and shut up shop like TNS and Lokeren. They will be a bit more ambitious and the fans should see an open game."

With Nicolas Anelka fit again after a calf strain, the Frenchman looks set to partner Fowler against the Polish side with Paulo Wanchope dropping down to the bench.

Shaun Wright-Phillips, who is in the middle of a domestic suspension, may replace Trevor Sinclair as he has a dead leg.

Manchester City v Groclin City of Manchester Stadium, 8.0