Source: Team_Talk
AJ frustrated by City bench life
Manchester City winger Adam Johnson admits he has found recent substitute appearances "hard to take" - especially as he is in sizzling form.[LNB] The England international responded to his latest axe from the first-team with a match-winning goal off the bench in City's 2-1 Premier League victory over Newcastle last weekend.[LNB]He is currently on international duty with England, who will attempt to record a third successive Euro 2012 qualification victory over Montenegro when the teams meet on Tuesday night.[LNB]The prospect of an away fixture at Blackpool then awaits on Sunday, and Johnson is hoping he has done enough to earn a place back in Roberto Mancini's starting XI.[LNB]"I was very disappointed to lose my place after I was man of the match against Blackburn and I haven't started a Premier League game since," he told the Manchester Evening News.[LNB]"That is hard for me, but we have a great squad here and the manager makes the decisions - you just have to deal with them.[LNB]"The competition for places is tough. We have world-class players and the big signings who have come in have made it even harder, but I am prepared for the fight."[LNB]Johnson has responded to his demotion by scoring the equaliser when handed a start in the Europa League draw with Juventus last week, and then coming off the bench to grab a winner against Newcastle.[LNB]He added: "I have been playing well, and my form hasn't dropped at all, so I am just looking forward to a start.[LNB]"Coming on and scoring against Newcastle was magnificent.[LNB]"The fans were singing my name to come on sooner, which is nice."
