Manchester City boss Mark Hughes is hoping for a midfield boost before season's end.

Nagging fears that Martin Petrov might need a second operation have been allayed by a trip to the surgeon and the Bulgaria winger, out since October, is targeting a return to senior duty before the end of the season.

That is also Michael Johnson's aim. Hughes told City's website: "It's frustrating for them but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. If it doesn't happen, they will train through the summer to be fit for the start of next season."