PATRICK Vieira is set to make his long-awaited debut for Manchester City against Hull on Saturday.The 33-year-old, who arrived on a free transfer from Inter Milan in January, has now finally overcome an ankle injury and said he cannot wait to make his debut for Roberto Mancini's side.

PATRICK Vieira is set to make his long-awaited debut for Manchester City against Hull on Saturday.

The 33-year-old, who arrived on a free transfer from Inter Milan in January, has now finally overcome an ankle injury and said he cannot wait to make his debut for Roberto Mancini's side.

“It has been a frustrating spell with the injury. Thank God it is over and I am ready to start,” he told the club's website.

“I suffered it in the last game for Inter and did not realise it was that bad. City have been right behind me and I have to thank them for that.

“I am looking forward to playing in the Premier League again and getting a run of games. When I was in Italy I followed the matches. They have been exciting and I really believe it is one of the best in the world.”

Vieira insists City are getting closer to their cross-city rivals, Manchester United and believes they will be challenging Alex Ferguson's men on an equal-footing in the near future.

“I have found a team that matches my expectations. I think the future for this club is fantastic. There are a lot of winners and great players in the dressing room.

“Hopefully we can achieve what we want and finish in the top four. We are getting closer to Manchester United. The gap is definitely narrowing.”