Sven-Goran Eriksson is calling for clubs to be allowed more options when it comes to using substitutes.

The Manchester City manager would prefer to have seven players on the bench, not five as currently allowed.

Eriksson is encountering a traditional problem in trying to keep all his players happy with summer signings Rolando Bianchi, Gelson Fernandes and Geovanni finding it hard to get games.

He said: "When you have say 23 players, who are working hard, it is bad when you have to omit them on match day.

"Everyone wants to be on the pitch but it would help if we could change the rules on substitutes. If we could have seven players on the bench, it would be much better."

Croatia defender Vedran Corluka is one newcomer who has settled in quickly after moving from Dinamo Zagreb.

A versatile international, he is due to switch to the centre tonight against Roy Keane's Sunderland in the expected absence of Micah Richards with a knee problem.

Corluka (21) is relishing the challenge of facing a team set up by former Manchester United star Keane.

He said: "I used to watch Keane play on television in Croatia. He was an excellent player and is now a good coach."

City are aiming for their seventh straight home league win and despite the heavy defeat by Chelsea, Eriksson's side would go third with a win.

The Swede has adjusted quickly to life in the north-west after leaving his London base.

He said: "I am fine in Manchester. It is a very positive city and I like it here.  It is easier to live here than in London. If you have two or three meetings there the day is gone because of the traffic. That was frustrating for me."

Bulgaria winger Martin Petrov could return after missing the Carling Cup victory against Bolton because of a toe injury.

Eriksson, however, remains guarded about whether Sweden's Andreas Isaksson will retain his place between the posts and keep out Joe Hart.

"They are both good goalkeepers who deserve to play," said the City boss. "I have not made my mind up.

"While Joe did not play at Bolton it had nothing to do with the Chelsea result. We had decided before that game to change goalkeepers for the cup game."  PA