Mark Hughes insists Robinho is part of his long-term plan for Manchester City. The Brazilian playmaker Robinho arrived at Eastlands for a British record £32.5million fee at the beginning of September as the Abu Dhabi United Group set about making a significant statement of intent over the ownership of the Blues.

At first the Brazilian impressed, scoring a hat-trick against Stoke and appearing unstoppable at times. However, amid allegations of a serious sexual assault and an unconnected and unscheduled return to South America when he was meant to be at a training camp in Spain, the 25-year-old’s form has dipped markedly.

It was December 28 when he last scored and on Sunday against Sunderland, his woeful penalty was easily saved by Marton Fulop after he took the spot-kick responsibility from fellow countryman Elano.

Speculation that a summer move to Chelsea — the club he originally wanted to join from Real Madrid — could be back on the agenda has ceased following the exit of Luiz Felipe Scolari from Stamford Bridge.

Yet rumours of a poor relationship between Hughes and his star striker persist, speculation Robinho’s recent lack of goals has only fuelled.

Hughes is adamant the stories are not true. And the City boss is confident Robinho will be around for a long time.

“There is no reason for anybody to think Robinho is not playing well for any other reason than the opposition stopping him,” declared Hughes.

“He is aware of the stories about him and he knows the focus is on him. But he is in my plans long term. People who say otherwise are just being mischievous.

“He is an outstanding player who wants to be part of what we are doing. But he is also a professional football player and he doesn’t enjoy getting beaten.”