Sergio Aguero was back in Manchester City's starting XI for Monday night's clash with Arsenal for the first time since late November.

The Argentine striker returned from a heel injury to take on the Gunners but was largely ineffective as City went down 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium.

Aguero was replaced by Wilfried Bony just after the hour-mark but his below par performance did not worry manager Manuel Pellegrini who is aware his star striker will rediscover his best form after a few weeks back in the starting lineup.

"For Sergio, it was important for him to return to the team," Pellegrini told Sky Sports.

"He worked the whole week with the squad and he will need a couple of games to return to his performances."