Roberto Mancini has said that Adam Johnson's performance against Fulham yesterday was very pleasing, noting the winger's work-rate in particular.

The Manchester City boss has previously criticised the Englishman's overall efforts during games but said he was impressed with what he saw at the Etihad yesterday.

"He took his chance (of a start) very well," said Mancini. "He can become even better, but he worked and had a very good game."

Johnson set up two of the three goals yesterday by winning a penalty and seeing his cross diverted home by Fulham defender Chris Baird.

Italian coach Mancini had previously condemned the 24-year-old's performance in October's Carling Cup win over Wolves.

"Sometimes he thinks, 'OK, in this game I scored one goal, I did an assist, that is enough'," said Mancini after that win at Molineux.

Johnson's appearance in Mancini's starting XI was only the third time he has started a league game since the October win at Wolves.