Elano grateful to Eriksson April 19 2008
Manchester City midfielder Elano has spoken of his respect for Sven-Goran Eriksson as the club prepare for the final hurdles of the season.
Speculation is growing about the Swede's future after City owner Thaksin Shinawatra refused to back him this week.
The former Thailand prime minister is disappointed with the team's dip in form after a bright start to the campaign and will conduct a review of the club at the end of the campaign.
While Elano is anxious not to be dragged into the debate, he remains grateful to Eriksson for bringing him to Eastlands in the summer from Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk.
"The manager is an excellent person, " said the Brazil international, who scored his ninth goal of the season in the victory over Sunderland last week.
"I owe him a great deal. When I tell him my worries, he listens to what I have to say. There was a spell when I was left out of the side and I was not happy. I explained my situation to him and he gave his reasons.
"I was also troubled by an injury and when I returned my role had changed. But my game is not about physical challenges, I need my own space to play. Now I am back playing in my favourite position and things are better.
"The manager is someone I respect. As a player we have to leave the other business to the chairman and the board. We are only responsible for what happens on the pitch."
The Blues still have a slim chance of clinching a European place and entertain Portsmouth on Sunday.
Elano is determined to help Eriksson's side finish the season in style.
"I understand the club have never had more points in the Premier League. That is good but we need to win our remaining games if we want to play in Europe.
"I know people always expect me to do well but that is not a problem for me. I will always work hard for the team and give my best as I feel settled.
"I am happy at this club and so are my wife and family. When my mother came over to visit, she did not want to go back. So now England is my favourite national team after Brazil."