Hughes to take on kings of Denmark without his prince of Wales Bellamy

18 March 2009 10:00
Swift return: Bellamy[LNB]Manchester City[LNB]boss Mark Hughes has all but ruled out the possibility of Craig Bellamy making a surprise return in Europe tomorrow. [LNB]Some reports had suggested the striker, out since the start of the month with a knee injury, could feature in the UEFA Cup clash against Aalborg after recovering quicker than expected.   [LNB]But Hughes suggests Sunday's Barclays Premier League clash against Sunderland[LNB]is a more realistic comeback date.   [LNB]Hughes said: "We will look at it. It is unlikely Craig will be involved but we are more hopeful for the weekend."   [LNB]City travel to Denmark ahead of the second leg of the last-16 tie tomorrow hoping to protect a 2-0 first-leg lead.   [LNB]Midfielder Vincent Kompany is pushing for a place and will be given a late fitness test on his toe injury.   [LNB]Hughes added: "It is a lot better than it has been, although he is still having a little bit of pain.   [LNB]"He had a run out for the first time yesterday and we will make a late decision on him. [LNB] "Hopefully we will have the option because he will give us that little bit of strength in the middle of the park we maybe lacked at the weekend."   [LNB]Hughes insists there is no room for complacency despite travelling with a comfortable advantage from last week's first leg.   [LNB]"They are a good side," he said. "People shouldn't under-estimate the task that is ahead of us.   [LNB] Fighting for fitness: Craig Bellamy celebrates scoring for City[LNB]"They have caused good teams problems in the past and people shouldn't be distracted by how well we played in the first leg.   [LNB]"They didn't play as well as people expected because of the manner of our performance.   [LNB]"If they get ahead they are likely to cause you problems. We have to make sure we are in control of the tie."   [LNB]A successful run in the competition could yield City's first trophy since 1976.   [LNB]Hughes said: "It'd be great for the team and the club. It is important to progress in European competitions. We have enjoyed it so far and hope it can continue." [LNB] [LNB] Barcelona star Dani Alves not interested in move to Chelsea or Manchester City[LNB]Travel sickness puts Robinho's City place under threat from Petrov[LNB]Chelsea cool Robinho interest as Man City star fails Stamford Bridge audition[LNB]MANCHESTER CITY FC NEWS FROM ACROSS THE WEB[LNB] [LNB]  

Source: Daily_Mail