Mark Hughes still a believer as he plots cup shock
Manchester City manager Mark Hughes is adamant the club can win their first trophy for 33 years, despite facing an uphill task in tonight's UEFA Cup quarter-final.
City must overturn a 3-1 first-leg deficit against Hamburg at Eastlands if they are to reach the last four. It is a tough task given their recent form - five defeats in six games.
However, Hughes is not giving up the fight just yet as City prepare for their 16th match in the competition after starting out in July.
He said: "We would all love to be part of a team that bring a trophy to Manchester City.
"Over the years the club have struggled to put silverware on the sideboard. It would be a great achievement if we could do it this year.
"It may well surprise people if we are able to do that. But that is our aim."
Hughes has come under fire from a section of the supporters after a string of poor results but he is relaxed about his own situation and said: "My position is there for the owners to make a judgment on.
"My role at the club does not change until someone tells me it changes. I know with the quality of staff and the players we have we can be successful in the future."
Hughes looks set to restore Robinho to the team as he will be without strikers Craig Bellamy and Benjani through injury.
The club's record buy has suffered a goal drought after last finding the target on 28 December against Blackburn.
Hughes believes the Brazilian's dip in form is the result of the opposition knowing how to make him less effective.
He said: "That is what has happened in some games. Robby will have to learn from that and deal with it."
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