Elano has struggled for first-team opportunities at Manchester City this season and has mostly been used as a substitute.

The 27-year-old shone in Brazil's friendly against Italy on Tuesday though, linking well with City team-mate Robinho and scoring a well-worked 13th-minute opener.

"Of course, it gives me a lot of strength, a lot of fight," said Elano. "I am very hungry to show what I am capable of, to show that I can be useful, and I think I proved that.

"But I do not have to prove anything to anyone. I only try to prove it to myself and, because I work hard every day, I know how difficult it is.

"However, that is all I can say. I am a lucky man and in important games I always end up appearing."

Elano was fined by City boss Mark Hughes in November for speaking out about his lack of first-team appearances in a specially arranged television interview and was linked with a move away from Eastlands in the winter transfer window.

Elano and Robinho's good understanding on the pitch for their country will have left many City fans pondering why the pair are not used together more often.

The duo have only started 13 of City's 29 games since Robinho's debut, recording six wins including a 6-0 victory over Portsmouth and a 5-1 rout of Hull.

However, Elano was cautious in criticising Hughes' decisions again.

"The Manchester City coach also believes in me," he continued. "But he has his way of putting the team on the pitch and I respect that because that's the way it is.

"But I will continue to work hard so I can get into his plans and play, because what can you do? I have to work and do my best.

"Because if I give up and leave everything will be worse for me.

"I never choose to act different. I always try to do my best wherever I play."

Elano also gave his support to compatriot Luiz Felipe Scolari, who was sacked as Chelsea coach on Monday.

"I was sad at the news. I know the capacity Felipao has and the man that he is," he added. "I hope he can continue with a clear head.

"I know he is a man of much character and can do many things, both in Europe and Brazil.

"Soon he will be back."