Milner, 25, has suddenly found himself marginalised as the club bid for a top-four finish and a place in the Champions League for the first time.
They also have the FA Cup final to look forward to on May 14 and a chance to end a 35-year wait for a major trophy. Milner has not featured in the last two games after being replaced by David Silva in the 3-0 drubbing by Liverpool, to his obvious annoyance.
However, Milner could have a part to play in the home match against West Ham on Sunday after some comforting words from Mancini.
"James is disappointed he has not played in the last two games, but I trust James," Mancini said. "He is an incredible midfielder.
"I think he can improve a lot, but for this we have time next year. Now we have another five games and the final and he will be an important player in this time."
Source: PA
Source: PA