In spite of treating the club with disrespect when he went to play golf for several months last year whilst on a six figure salary, the City fans did not appear the least bit bothered when he returned to start scoring goals in the second half of last season.

"I don't know if I'm an idol for the City fans, but I am very grateful to them," he told the Manchester Evening News. "They have always treated me well, even after all of the things that were said away from the pitch. They have always welcomed me, and for that I am grateful."