Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is reportedly unwilling to allow Carlos Tevez back into the senior squad following his return to the club after months of self-inflicted exile.

The Argentina international will take to the field in a City shirt for the first time since September in a reserve fixture against Preston North End today.

While reports have suggested that the 28-year-old could make a sensational return to the first team, it is believed that Mancini has no intention of enlisting the striker's help in the Premier League title race, according to The Mirror.

The reserve fixture is due to be played behind closed doors in order to prevent the spotlight from being on the South American frontman.