James Milner has admitted that he has had a frustrating season with Manchester City after failing to win a regular place in the starting XI.

The 25-year-old has started just three matches so far, with Roberto Mancini preferring to play the likes of Sergio Aguero, Mario Balotelli, David Silva and Adam Johnson instead.

"It has been frustrating this season. I've only played a couple of games and also had a few injuries so it's been difficult for me," he said.

"I played 90 minutes at Blackburn on Saturday and all I can do is try to perform as well as I can. After that it's down to the manager. Hopefully I can stay fit, play more and keep improving to stake a claim for a place.

"The competition is very high at City and you have to play well every time you get a chance if you're going to stay in the team."

City's beat Blackburn 4-0 in last weekend's fixture.