City fear for Schmeichel's fitness

Manchester City FC goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel will miss the start of the English FA Premiership season after suffering cartilage damage in a pre-season match last night.

Host of trophies
The former Denmark goalkeeper, who won a host of trophies during a glittering career with City's chief rivals, Manchester United FC, was substituted in the 21st minute against Preston North End FC after colliding with an opponent.

'Not what we wanted'
City manager Kevin Keegan said: "He will struggle to make the start of the season as we think he might have done his cartilage. It's not what we wanted, but you don't always get what you want in football."

Alternatives
City will turn to either Carlo Nash or Nicky Weaver to replace the 38-year-old Schmeichel for the first game of the season against Leeds United AFC on 17 August. The Dane joined the club during the summer from Aston Villa FC.