The former England boss was dismayed at the way the team lost to fellow high-fliers Everton at Goodison Park at the weekend.

Eriksson is demanding a return to their roots and a more expansive game against West Ham in an FA Cup replay at Eastlands tomorrow.

Winning ugly, it appears, is not an option for the Swedish manager, who has no time for a long-ball game.

He said: "We have to start playing the football we are capable of from the first minute against West Ham.

"It is important we learn from the Everton game. You have to try to play the right way.

"We did not play football. We kicked it long all the time, especially in the first half.

"That is not our way of playing. Teams make it difficult for you but we have to overcome that.

"But I am not worried. We have a lot of players who know how to play the right way."

Eriksson is keen to bolster his squad but City, like other top-flight teams, are finding it hard to do business in the transfer window.

He said: "The problems tend to lie more with the club than the player.

"Most clubs do not want to release players and I can understand that.

"In general it is more difficult in January to recruit than in the summer as you have a shorter time, only a month.

"We are working on several targets and I hope we can do some business in the two weeks that are left."

Eriksson, however, insists he would be content if they did not make any additions.

"The team are not that bad. We are doing rather well," he said.

"There is money available to buy players but I would be happy to play the rest of the season with the ones we have."

Midfielder Ousmane Dabo is one squad member who appears ready for a new challenge after a lack of match action.

Eriksson said: "I spoke to his agent and I would not be surprised if Dabo left.

"I suppose he is frustrated as he is a good player and a good professional. He trains very hard and that is welcome."

Dabo cannot get into the side even though Michael Johnson remains sidelined with a abdominal strain.

Instead defender Vedran Corluka has been switched to midfield as a short-term option.

Eriksson has been pleased with the way the Croatian has adapted but added: "His best position is centre-half. That is where his future lies."

Striker Emile Mpenza is expected to return to full training on Monday after being told to rest following a series of niggling injuries, the latest a hamstring strain.