Manchester City veteran Yaya Toure was always confident winning back his place this season.
Toure admits he has had to work hard to get his fitness right and win over his demanding manager.
He said: “I was prepared mentally and I knew that one day the manager would need me again. I am professional but I always want to improve my game.
“The most important thing for me is to keep working hard – those who work hardest have more opportunities to play.”