Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini maintains that defender Joleon Lescott remains an important member of his squad. Lescott, who is out of contract in the summer, has been linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium during January.
When asked if there was truth in suggestions Lescott could leave this month, Pellegrini said: "Not for the moment.
"Joleon Lescott is a very important player for us.
"I understand he finishes his contract in June here.
"We will see what happens in the future but for the moment he is still here and he is a very useful player for our team."
Asked further if he could be allowed out on loan, Pellegrini replied: "At this moment, we are not considering.
"We will see in the future, during the transfer window, what will happen."
