Petrov unhappy on the City bench

Martin Petrov has again expressed his frustration at the lack of opportunities he is getting at Manchester City.

The Bulgarian scored and scooped man-of-the-match plaudits against West Ham at Eastlands a week ago.

Yet the performance was not enough for the 30-year-old to keep his place at Aston Villa on Monday.

Petrov's frustration could have only increased still further when he was asked to get ready to go on at Villa Park, only for manager Mark Hughes to change his mind when Craig Bellamy swept home the equaliser.

In the short-term at least, it is difficult to see the situation changing for the better.

Quite apart from Bellamy's brilliant recent form, Petrov also knows £32.5million record signing Robinho will be back in action soon as he is close to recovering from an ankle injury picked up on international duty with Brazil.

'When they give me a chance I give my best,' said Petrov. 'I think I've shown that I deserve a place in the starting line-up but it's up to him (Hughes).

'It is not pleasant. I am a professional and I am observing my obligations but it doesn't rest well with me.'

Hughes has praised Petrov's attitude since a deadline-day move to Tottenham failed to be completed.

The City boss also brushed off Petrov's goal celebration at the Hammers, when he ran a few paces towards the dug-outs before holding the back of his shirt to emphasise the name.

'I didn't do it for him,' said Petrov. 'I did it for my wife because she forgot my number.'