Hughes calls on senior City stars to lead from the front

Step up: Mark Hughes has called on senior players like Elano to lead the team

Andrew Hodgson13 April 2012

Mark Hughes says his senior Manchester City players will provide the key to progressing in the UEFA Cup tonight.

The City boss believes Shay Given and Wayne Bridge have the necessary experience to dispatch Aalborg in their last 16, first-leg tie.

City have already beaten Danish sides Midtjylland and FC Copenhagen but Aalborg offer a tougher test, having been knocked out of the Champions League earlier this season.

Hughes said: "As a group we are a little bit light in European experience.

"But the senior guys need to lead from the front and help players who have not reached the same level.

"Shay has been a real positive influence. He brings a calmness and an assurance to the back four and has experience of European nights that will come to the fore with regard to the games we are involved in."

City are expected to be boosted by the return of Brazilian striker Robinho, while countryman Elano (above) could be handed a starting berth.

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