Signed in the same week as David Silva, the pair have been the mainstays of the clubs midfield since. JOEY BARTON admits he hacked down Xabi Alonso as he felt the Spaniard stole his move to Liverpool. I had been captain of Southampton and of Norway; I was supposed to be strong. I am in a moment of my career where I feel very mature. It was in total contrast to Bruce Rioch who had left not long before Wenger arrived. It is a world away from the lavish?settings they are used to at their state of the art AON Training Complex at Carrington in Manchester. JOHN OBI MIKEL is ready to quit Chelsea in January after his first-team game time dried up under Antonio Conte. City fans will always be grateful that he did because Toure has given them some precious memories to look back on. Begiristain and Citys hierarchy knew Toures best days were behind him and planning was under way for life without him. comments made to the mediaToure is out of contract at the end the season — meaning hes free to sign for a new club in January.