Keegan hopes for better fare from Fowler

Manchester City boss Kevin Keegan hopes Robbie Fowler can get back to his best for the new season.

The England forward has played in every pre-season game to sharpen his fitness, but Keegan needs Fowler to rediscover his form too.

The ex-Liverpool and Leeds United striker was criticised for not keeping in trim over the summer and his strike rate for the Blues (two goals in 13 games) has been under scrutiny.

"Robbie needs a goal now," the manager told the club's official website on Thursday. "I think he is getting closer to full fitness. We will keep working."

He added: "The important thing is that all the players are fit and ready to go when the season starts and I think they will be."

The Citizens are in the UEFA Cup thanks to their fair play record and their first competitive game is only two weeks away, when they face Welsh side TNS in the competition on August 14.