Joao Alves de Assis - more commonly known as Jo - became Manchester City's record signing in July 2008 for a fee which was reported to be in the region of £19 million.

He began his career with Corinthians in his homeland before moving to Europe in 2005 with CSKA Moscow. In Russia he won the league title in 2006, plus two Supercups and the Russian Cup and during his time at the club he scored a hugely impressive 44 goals in 77 games.

However, Jo failed to make any kind of impression at Eastlands and had scored only one Premier League goal when he was loaned to Everton for the remainder of the season on deadline day in February 2009. His impact at Goodison Park saw him score five Premier League goals in 11 starts at Everton and he returned to the Toffees on loan for 2009-10.

After a falling out with manager David Moyes over Christmas, Jo opted to move to Turkish side Galatasaray on loan for the rest of the season and returned to City to try and get some first-team games.

Strengths: Powerful and agile, he has a good turn of pace and provides a physical and aerial threat up front.

Weaknesses: Inconsistent and does not have the best first touch. His movement can be a source of frustration.

Career high: His move to Manchester City was the reward for three excellent goal-laden years in Russia.

Career low: His first season at Manchester City saw him make few appearances and would have been a crushing blow to his confidence.

Style: Agile, strong, a powerful leader of the line.

Quotes: ''He's a big guy, in stature and ability, so I think everybody will enjoy watching him play. A lot has been said about him and there was an expectation on him coming out of Brazil, so with the success he's had, I think it's a real coup that we've been able to bring him to the club.'' Former City boss Mark Hughes on Jo.

Trivia: His dad Francisco Dario had a failed football career and worked as a taxi driver to provide for the four children.