Bulgarians to stay

Both of our Bulgarians' agents have confirmed today that their players are expecting to be at City next season.

First Franco Moretti, Martin Petrov's agent, said this:

Moretti told Sport: "I think he will be staying at City, he has a contract with them.

"I think he will stay at Eastlands for sure, because the coach (Mark Hughes) is staying there.

"He is a big fan, so he will definitely stay at City."

And Valeri Bozhinov's agent, Gerry Palomba, made similar comments:

"Anyway, Manchester City have assured me that he remains a key part of their squad.

"He has been very unfortunate with injury, but they intend to continue the working relationship and have no plans to part....

"He has said that in the future he would like the opportunity to play in Serie A again, but Manchester City still believe in him.

"I have spoken to Mark Hughes in person and, as the manager, he is the man appointed to decide who stays and who goes. For as long as he gives us the assurances we want to hear, why look for a different club?"

Petrov and Bozhinov are very popular players, but I'd be surprised if either of them are first choice next season. I don't see how Petrov gets in the team while Robinho's at the club, and I imagine Bozhinov will be behind whichever strikers we buy in the pecking order. So it's interesting to hear that Hughes wants to keep them both.