Under-fire Manuel Pellegrini launches belated attack on Boro's FA Cup tactics

Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini has launched a belated attack on Boro's FA Cup tactics, accusing Aitor Karanka's side of 'parking the bus'.

Pellegrini found himself in the firing line again on Saturday following a dismal few weeks, that began with a 2-0 defeat against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium.

The Premier League champions were then stunned as Boro put in a perfect away day performance, with goals from Patrick Bamford and Kike dumping City out of the FA Cup.

Then on Saturday, fans' frustrations hit breaking point after Hull City picked up a shock 1-1 draw at the Etihad, leaving City's title bid in tatters.

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini (right) and Middlesbrough manager Aitor Karanka before the FA Cup Fourth Round match at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester.

After the match Pellegrini launched a shock attack on many of his recent opponents - including Boro - claiming that City are struggling to break down teams that are so defensive.

"We work and run but you need ideas when you play teams like Hull, Middlesbrough or Arsenal when they come with nine or 10 players behind the ball," Pellegrini told the Sunday Express.

"Maybe players coming back from injury - important players will help. We need to try and find other ways to play. It is difficult to know what the reason is for the spark going."

Pellegrini's comments will bemuse many Boro fans, with the Teessiders laying siege to the City goal in the second half.

Lee Tomlin and Albert Adomah both should have made Boro's result more comfortable on the day, with Boro having 14 shots - six of which were on target.

In comparison, City only managed eight shots on target.