Watch Newcastle United vs Coventry City Live Streaming
Watch Newcastle United vs Coventry City Live StreamingHowever, Mancini is acutely aware City must defend better than they did on Saturday, when Ricardo Fuller scored direct from one of Rory Delap's famous long throws, if they are to achieve their objective.
"It will be hard for us because Stoke are dangerous at free-kicks and throw-ins," said the Italian.
"We must prepare very well and we must pay more attention in these situations. If we want to go up the table, we need to change our mentality. But I think we will be ready for a fight."
Tonight's game represents the start of a tough period for the Blues that is likely to shape their season.
In addition to the FA Cup replay against Stoke, with Chelsea lying in wait for the victors, City must visit Stamford Bridge in the league immediately after Sunday's collision with Liverpool at Eastlands.
Not that Mancini can afford to look beyond what happens this evening.
"It is a tough period," he acknowledged.
"But at the moment, all I am thinking about is Stoke.
