Now 29, it has appeared Wright-Phillips would be looking for another club in the summer, after failing to totally convince manager Roberto Mancini that he can make an impact on the very highest stage.

However, the England international is refusing to accept a departure is inevitable.

Knowing how popular he is amongst the Eastlands faithful, Wright-Phillips has vowed to put everything into his fight to remain at the club.

“It feels like I am part of the furniture here,” he told www.mcfc.co.uk.

“I would love to retire a City player and I have my fingers crossed it is something that can still happen.

“When I did leave in 2005, I broke down crying on the way to sign for Chelsea, but back then, we needed the money my sale brought in.

“The fans didn’t even turn their back on me then. They always give me a brilliant reception and I can’t explain how good that feels.”

Wright-Phillips has endured European campaigns, promotions and relegations with the Blues.

However, he has never played for them in the Champions League and he has never won any meaningful silverware either.

Both are distinct possibilities over the next few months, with a tricky trip to Liverpool due to be negotiated on Monday before that momentous FA Cup semi-final with Manchester United at Wembley.

Given the number of times they have lost out to the Red Devils in close contests recently, there is a feeling amongst the Blues faithful that this could be their turn.

But Wright-Phillips is not looking on that single game as a possible triumph in itself.

He realises a first cup final appearance since 1981 would mean nothing if City failed to overcome either Stoke or Bolton in the final.

“I want to fulfil a lifelong dream and help win a trophy for our fans,” he said. “I wouldn’t just want to beat United and then lose in the final – we need to get to the final and win it.

“If I could play even a small part of making that happen, I would be a happy man.”