Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure has claimed he knew manager Pep Guardiola would need to call upon him at some point this season.
Toure had been frozen out of City's squad with Guardiola unhappy with the conduct of Toure's agent, Dimitri Seluk, and it seemed likely that the former Barcelona man would be exiting the club sooner rather than later.
However, the 33-year-old made a stunning return to City colours on Saturday, scoring a brace as his side overcame Crystal Palace 2-1. Speaking toSky Sports, Toure maintained he knew his chance would come eventually.
"They have always been brilliant with me, always supportive," Toure said.
"I always want to be there to help them. I am professional, I always want to improve my game.
"I was prepared mentally and I knew that one day my manager would need me. You must always stay professional."
Toure posted an apology on social media earlier this month, apologising 'on behalf of myself and those who represent me', and that, coupled alongside his committed attitude in training, has seen the two-time Premier League title winner recalled to the Manchester City squad.
Manager Guardiola was visibly thrilled by the return of Toure, which gave him the opportunity to rest the likes of Ilkay Gundogan and David Silva ahead of Manchester City's Champions League game against Borussia Mochengladbach on Wednesday.
"We have a new player now," Guardiola, who managed Toure at Barcelona, revealed."It's a gift to have another player to compete (for a place).
"He's part of the history of this club. He's a huge personality and his teammates appreciate him a lot."