England

Mark Hughes Plays Down Speculation Over Robinho Future

Brazilian nearing full fitness, but is not going anywhere.

Oct 28, 2009 6:11:25 AM

EPL: De Souza Robinho, Manchester City - Hull City (PA)

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EPL: De Souza Robinho, Manchester City - Hull City (PA)

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Manchester City manager Mark Hughes has stated that he expects to have striker Robinho back in action within a week.

The Brazil international has been licking his wounds for over eight weeks owing to a stress fracture of his ankle. During this time, there has been an increasing amount of speculation surrounding the future of the striker, with some quarters hinting that the 25-year-old could be headed to Barcelona.

Howevenr, Hughes remains unmoved concerning the speculation.

"The only problem is that he [Robinho] is not fit and I cannot play him," he said ahead of tonight's League Cup tie against Championship side Scunthorpe United.

"That will resolve itself, we hope, in the next week or so. It is about him getting back playing and enjoying his football again. And that takes away any other focus on Robi."

Adithya Ananth, Goal.com

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