City's Hughes link grows
03 Jun 2008 - 16:57:55
Manchester City are set to hold talks with Blackburn Rovers manager Mark Hughes as they look to find a replacement for Sven-Goran Eriksson who left Eastlands on Monday after less than 12 months at the club.
City have also dispensed with the services of assistant manager Hans Backe and first-team coach Tord Grip.
Chief executive Alistair Mackintosh told the club's official website: "Both Hans and Tord have made a positive impact on all those involved with Manchester City over the course of the season and we thank them for their contribution. We wish them every success in the future."
City are reported to have agreed a compensation package with Rovers for Hughes, who has also been linked with the managerial vacancy at Chelsea.
The former Wales manager has been in charge at Ewood Park since September 2004. Rovers finished seventh in the campaign just ended, 12 months after Hughes guided them to a tenth-placed finish in the Premier League.
In his first full season in charge, 2005-06, Hughes lifted Rovers to a top-six finish, after steering them clear of the relegation zone in the previous year.
On Monday, Rovers issued a statement which read: "Mark has made it clear to the board he would like the opportunity to talk to Manchester City.
"In view of this, the board have decided reluctantly to give permission subject to terms and conditions acceptable to Blackburn Rovers being agreed with Manchester City in advance."