Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini insists Craig Bellamy remains a crucial part of his plans.

Bellamy was hooked midway through the second-half of Saturday's defeat at Hull City.

But Mancini told the club's website: "Craig is an influential member of the team.

"He is very strong and quick and always gives the team one hundred percent each time he plays for us.

"It's not hard to understand why the City fans love him so much. He gives me a number of options and he has the kind of pace defenders fear. He is a vital part of my team and I'm very happy he's here."