VK and NdJ back Sparky

No surprise really. He brought them both to the club, and now has them forming our two man screen in front of the back four. And their continued success is crucial to the continuance of the Mark Hughes project at City. Both they like him, and want him to continue as manager.

Nigel:

"I have found Mark Hughes a good manager to work with, but he must be given time. That is what I understood when I signed for the club - that he would be given time to build.

"Of course, it is not easy because everyone is expecting a lot from the new owners but there just has to be patience and that includes with the trainer. It is not always his fault when the players go out on the pitch and don't perform. We also have to have individual responsibility about the results. Mark Hughes is good for this group."

Vincent:

He said: "Since we have had clear weeks we have increased our level dramatically and players are coming back fit. We have shown what a good side we are. Mark Hughes' ideas can pay off when the personnel is there.

"We are in a better situation now to prepare. It's important to plan well, but in the end any player on the pitch is beatable. We won't just look to defend. United are in our way and we have to go there and get a result."