Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini insists he still believes in Nigel de Jong.

De Jong made his first start since November at Sunderland and was removed at half-time.

The Dutchman, who had a spell out in August and September with a foot injury, has fallen down the pecking order this season but Mancini insists he remains central to his plans.

Mancini said: "Nigel had too many problems when we started the season, two months off for injury.

"After this the squad played a different system with two strikers, two offensive players like wingers and only two midfielders.

"For this reason Nigel did not play a lot of games but he is still an important player. There is no change in this situation. Now he can play.

"I think it is normal that one player, when he doesn't play, is frustrated.

"For him it is difficult but now we are playing five games in 16 days and we need our players."