Hughes asserts authority at City
Hughes asserts authority at City
Former Blackburn boss Mark Hughes has attempted to draw a line under what he has called a “difficult week” at Manchester City by holding clear-the-air talks with players.
Hughes’ pre-season plans have been disrupted by rumours that he is not in control of City’s transfer policy - despite being the club’s team manager - amidst continued speculation about the state of owner Thaksin Shinawatra’s finances.
However, he has attempted to regain the initiative by emphasising his determination to take sole responsibility for team affairs - and that if players leave it will be on his terms.
“I had a meeting with the players the other day. We need to make the group aware that I’m in charge and will make the decisions that affect the players,” he said.
“Everybody now understands that’s the situation.”
Hughes now hopes that the club can “move forward”, and their most immediate test will be Danish side FC Midtjylland in the first leg of their second-round Uefa Cup qualifier at the City of Manchester Stadium this evening (Thursday).
However, Hughes has already set his sights higher - he believes that, should City progress, they have a good chance of going a long way in the competition.
“If we get to the latter stages, we feel we have the players to go all the way,” he said.
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