Hughes counts on Robinho

(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-11-30 07:44

MANCHESTER: Manchester City manager Mark Hughes believes Robinho's impressive return to action in his side's 1-1 against Hull will help lift the gloom around Eastlands.

Robinho had been out since the end of August with an ankle problem and has been the subject of speculation linking him with a move to Barcelona.

City also became embroiled in a row with Brazil after the player was called up for his country's 1-0 friendly win over England in Doha two weeks ago.

But he finally returned to action against the Tigers on Saturday and looked in top form in 75 minutes before being substituted.

Even though Hughes is frustrated with his team's run of seven successive league draws which has seen it drop to sixth place, he was happy to see Robinho back on the field and feels the former Real Madrid winger can make a big difference.

He said: "He lasted a bit longer than that and faded a little bit towards the end and that's why we took him off.

"I was delighted with his performance and he looked really sharp and when you get the ball to him in areas in and around the box then it looks like something will happen and it looks like he can create something for you.

"We're pleased that he's back. He still needs games and game time on the field of play and that's what he'll get."

AFP

(China Daily 11/30/2009 page12)