Ranieri backs Sven

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Speculation has been rife over Eriksson's future, with City owner Thaksin Shinawatra conducting a review of the club and reportedly lining up a replacement.

But Juventus manager Ranieri, who was the victim of similar rumours before leaving his post as Chelsea boss, said: "Nobody can take a team and immediately bring first position. I think this year, another year and a third year - I think Sven would get the team in the first four."

He added: "The first year it is very difficult to immediately field a good team.

"The Premiership is very hard and there are a lot of good teams."

Eriksson was in a relaxed mood as City promoted the second leg of their post-season tour of Asia.

The former England boss remained silent on the topic of his future, but reflected on a "very good year" last season as the Blues finished ninth in the Premier League and secured a UEFA Cup berth via the fair play table.

"I think Manchester City as a club - the players, the coaches, everybody - we had a good year, a very good year," said Eriksson.

"The start of the season was fantastic, maybe too good to be true. Second half, we were not as good as the first half.

"Looking totally, I think it was a very good year for Manchester City."