MARK Kennedy made his 100th League appearance as Manchester City clambered over their rivals to the top of the First Division at Birmingham on Tuesday night.

And, in most respects, it seems that the 23-year-old Republic of Ireland left winger is finally maturing into the kind of player he was tipped to become when he took his first steps as a potential star with Millwall.

In between, Kennedy disappointed at Liverpool - where chances were few and far between - before attempting to rediscover himself at Wimbledon.

But it was the move to Maine Road, where City boss Joe Royle clearly believes in his summer signing's capabilities, that promises to bring out the best in a player with a flair for the spectacular.

Kennedy has been an ever-present in City's table-topping line-up this season and has contributed four goals, as well as an 'assist' for their winner at St Andrew's in midweek.

But the amazing figure in is Opta stats is 150 crosses during his 969 minutes on the pitch, by far and away the highest in the division. Contrast that with Jason Wilcox, who has delivered just nine in only 100 minutes less, although the Blackburn skipper has not always been used as a wide player in a four-man midfield. Kennedy is also streets ahead when it comes to dribbles and runs with 77 compared to Wilcox's 20.

And their differing roles is also illustrated by the fact that Wilcox has made 39 tackles, to Kennedy's six. On a Maine Road pitch which suits teams that play with width, Rovers will have to keep an eye on the Irishman.

That was in only his second appearance and City have since come to rely on some sizzling performances from the winger.

On a Maine Road pitch which suits teams that play with width, Rovers will have to keep an eye on the Irishman.

But City will be thinking likewise about the left-wing threat which faces them, from Jason Wilcox.

Handed the captain's armband, Rovers' senior player has been an ever-present in the League but has yet to score this season.

Tomorrow would be a handy time to break that particular duck.

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