City chief praises Hughes

Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has given a ringing endorsement of Mark Hughes' qualities as a manager.

Hughes has seen his side win only one of their last seven league games and they are only one point above the relegation zone. But Al Mubarak, who was in attendance at Sunday's 2-1 defeat to Tottenham, says it is nonsense to suggest the former Blackburn boss' job is under threat.

"We are calm and under control and we on the board have the highest regard for Mark," he told the club's official website.

"I am personally committed to him as I am committed to the partnership between executive chairman Garry Cook, Mark and myself.

"This is a winning team that is going through a learning curve right now.

"Thankfully I do not read the newspapers that are saying he is under pressure but I find it incredible.

"I am told that there are reports that we are associated with two different coaches and that we are about to sign them. It is rubbish."

Al Mubarak has re-iterated they have a 10-year plan in place and there will be funds in place for the manager to strengthen his squad when the transfer window re-opens in two months.

He said: "While January is going to be an interesting opportunity for Mark to improve the team, this is an exciting dynasty we are building and we are only in the first two months.

"I think people will see then that we have good foundations in place in the team, we have a good coach and that we will be upgrading in terms of players. Hopefully the results will come."