Taylor acknowledges Declan John competition

Last updated : 10 August 2013 By Michael Morris

Andrew TaylorTaylor was sent off at Hull in the final game of last season and will have to watch from the sidelines as City kick off their Premier League campaign at West Ham.

It's possible that Declan John could be the man to replace Taylor at Upton Park after the youngster impressed during pre season including a good game against Chievo last weekend.

"You need competition for places. I thought he [John] did really well last week," Taylor said.

"Somebody is going to have to play left-back the first game of the season because I'm suspended.

"So if he can take his opportunity, who knows?

"It's very disappointing to miss that first game but that's football, there's nothing I can do about that now I've just got to get on and look forward to the Man City game."

Malky Mackay's other options are to play Simon Lappin or maybe Joe Ralls. But John could be the surprise choice to be in the starting line up next Saturday.