The 31-year-old China international is out of contract at the end of the current season and has been used sparingly by Eriksson since he took the managerial reins in the summer.

But speaking after returning from a club visit to China and Thailand last week alongside the Swede, Jihai is adamant his future lies at the City of Manchester Stadium.

"People asked me about my future when I was in Asia and I made it clear that I am very happy to fight for my place at City," he told the club's official website.

"It's a long season and the manager is going to need to call on many players, and with my versatility I know I could be a big part of that.

"My contract is up at the end of the season and I would like to extend my stay at the club."