Manchester City Football Club News

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

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Hughes defends irate Bellamy

21 Sep 2009 - 07:41:38

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Manchester City boss Mark Hughes has urged the authorities to go easy on Craig Bellamy after he clashed with a Manchester United fan following Sunday's 4-3 derby defeat at Old Trafford.

The Wales striker appeared to lash out at a spectator who had invaded the pitch following the full-time whistle of a match his side had lost to a goal deep into stoppage time.

Bellamy appeared to lash out despite a steward restraining the spectator at the time but, speaking after a tumultuous match, Hughes leapt to the defence of his often controversial striker.

"I did not see it but the guy should not have been on the pitch. That is not acceptable," he said.

"I seem to recall Brian Clough clipping someone around the ear and he was lauded as a national hero. Maybe it will be the same case with Craig but I doubt it.

"I'm sure people will make a nuisance about it."

Meanwhile, Hughes also confirmed that City defender Javier Garrido was struck by a missile thrown from a section of United fans as he left the pitch at half-time.