Elano bemused by snub

Manchester City midfielder Elano cannot understand why he remains on the fringes of the first team fold under Mark Hughes.

The Brazilian quickly established cult hero status at Eastlands last season, with his South American flair endearing him to an expectant fan base.

However, with Sven Goran Eriksson having departed the Blues hot-seat over the summer, the playmaker has endured a difficult second season in England.

His failure to establish a regular role in the side under Hughes has seen him become increasingly frustrated, although he insists that he has no desire to secure a move elsewhere.

Capable
"When I am playing I know what he wants and when I come off there is nothing from him," Elano told Sky Sports News on his relationship with the Welsh coach.

"It's his right, he is the manager. I respect him and I will keep working, arriving on time and doing my duties at the club, but my sadness is not playing.

"I can't hide that from the fans or the president - who wants to make this a big club. I think I have the capabilities to be playing."

Money
With the Abu Dhabi United Group expected to usher in an exciting new era at City, Elano hopes he will be given an opportunity to play his part in any future success.

"City have a big project, they have something which not many clubs have at the moment - money," he added.

"I want to help by playing. I respect everyone here. I have many friends here and get on with the team 100 per cent.

"I respect the manager a lot but I cannot be happy if I don't play."