City boss leaps to Bellamy's defence as striker is accused of United fan bust-up

Mark Hughes jumped to the defence of Manchester City's two-goal striker Craig Bellamy after the fiery Welsh star clashed with a fan at Old Trafford this afternoon.   It was claimed Bellamy struck a spectator who had come onto the pitch as Manchester United recorded an amazing 4-3 victory.If the allegation is proved, the Blues striker - who has endured plenty of disciplinary trouble in the past - could find himself in trouble, even though it is against the law for supporters to go onto the field of play.    Top form: Craig Bellamy celebrates his second goal in the Manchester derbyHeated: Bellamy is in the thick of it as tempers flare in United's 4-3 win at Old Trafford on SundayHughes feels that aspect of the confrontation needs to be taken into account, although he fears it will not be.  'I did not see it but the guy should not have been on the pitch. That is not acceptable,' said the City chief.   '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.'   Hughes also confirmed substitute Javier Garrido was struck by a coin thrown from the home section of the stadium at half-time. It seemed the attack was actually aimed at former United hero Carlos Tevez, who was booed throughout by the home faithful.   Thankfully, Garrido was not hurt, although the Football Association are sure to be less than impressed with the two incidents.   'Apparently so,' Hughes confirmed. 'Something came from the crowd but he is okay.' Manchester United 4 Manchester City 3: Owen's grabs last-gasp winner for Fergie's menMark Hughes: I came close to quitting before City's Eastlands Sheik-upManchester United facing Chelsea-style transfer ban over teen signingsDes Kelly: Great joke City, but Fergie has the punchline  Explore more:People:Brian Clough, Carlos Tevez, MARK HUGHES, CRAIG BELLAMYPlaces:ManchesterOrganisations:Football Association

Source: Daily_Mail