Mark Hughes is not convinced the pressure on his shoulders would ease even if Manchester City ended their 33-year trophy drought by winning the UEFA Cup this season. "I don't see the scrutiny we are under lessening anytime soon," said Hughes. "We must get used to that.

"It is about dealing with that pressure and those expectations.

"As I keep stressing, the expectations some people have for us are a little bit unrealistic.

"First, we need to become a team that is solid and understands how to win games. We can compete in this league. What we have to do is compete consistently."