Manchester City Football Club News

• Nickname:Sky Blues
• Founded:1887
• Manager:Roberto Mancini

• Ground:City of Manchester Stadium
• Capacity:48,000

Hughes: Barry first of many

03 Jun 2009 - 07:35:27

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Mark Hughes claims the arrival of Gareth Barry is just the first of many summer signings for an ambitious Manchester City.

Barry swapped Aston Villa for Eastlands in a £12million deal on Tuesday evening after agreeing a five-year contract.

The 28-year-old England midfielder was expected to join Liverpool last summer before ultimately staying at Villa Park, but Hughes moved swiftly to land his man after learning that Barry could be available.

"I was looking to get a number of deals done as soon as possible and we've had a great start with Gareth joining us," Hughes told the club's official website.

"I hope we can conclude some more so that when we come back for pre-season training we have everybody fit and well and set for a successful campaign."

Meanwhile, Hughes believes that the versatile midfielder could prove to be a significant signing.

City finished tenth in the Premier League this season just finished and Hughes has already been set a top-six target next season by the club's ambitious board.

"Gareth is widely acknowledged as one of the top midfielders in the Premier League and that's a recommendation in itself," added Hughes.

"When players of his quality become available then you have to be in the market for them, so we're absolutely delighted that we've been able to conclude this deal.

"The experience required to compete with the best in the Premier League is vital and with Gareth we get the experience of someone who has played week-in, week-out in the hardest league in the world.

"He plays at a level that has an impact on the game, and we're thrilled that he's joining us.

"I like players that have the sort of flexibility that enables you to change your tactics if you need during a game and Gareth has that.

"He also has a range of passing that I'm keen to introduce to the team and he's got great delivery at sets-plays as well. He'll bring a lot to City."