Shaun Wright-Phillips(credit:
Warren)
Shaun Wright-Phillips could play a key role for Manchester City in the Premier League title race, first-team coach David Platt has insisted.
Wright-Phillips has been linked with a move away from the City of Manchester Stadium for much of this season after slipping down the pecking order, and confirmed his desire to leave by handing in a transfer request last month.
However, a January switch did not materialise and Platt has now revealed the 29-year-old winger could force his way back into Roberto Mancini’s plans due to the absence of Adam Johnson with an ankle injury.
Platt said: “What we had prior to January was a squad, when all fit, of 24 or 25 players and Shauny found himself out of it a few times.
“It did not work out for him in terms of moving away but he is a consummate pro. He has trained exceptionally well as he has done all season. He gives you a lot of pace and attacking ability.
“We are not stupid enough not to realise he might be important to us between now and the end of the season.”