Mancini warns Robinho to earn his place at Man City

London, Jan 16 (ANI): Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has warned ace striker Robinho to up his work-rate or face being marginalised at the club.

The Brazil star remains British football's most expensive player at 32.5 million pounds, but is still unable to command a regular place in City's starting line-up.

Mancini's predecessor Mark Hughes was also tired of Robinho's indolence and challenged the striker to prove his hunger and desire.

Robinho scored just three goals in 2009 and has only managed three away from home in his entire City career, The Mirror reports.

"Robinho is a good player, technically very good, but I think he can improve. The pitch is the same home and away. The cost of one player is not important. It is when you are buying the player, but not now," said Mancini.

"Robinho has played for Brazil and he has played for Real Madrid, so he is a top player. He's Brazilian and very technical, but I think he can improve in certain situations. He can play in different positions - in attack, left or right, and I don't yet know what the best position for him is in the team," he said. (ANI)