Hughes: Robinho Can Be My Captain Marvel

Manchester City boss Mark Hughes has backed his decision to hand the armband to his Brazilian superstar, claiming that the player has all the qualities of a good leader.

18 Nov 2008 18:32:46

Manchester City's Robinho celebrates in that distinctly familiar style of his after scoring against FC Twente in the UEFA Cup (PA)

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Many found Mark Hughes's decision to hand Robinho the captain's armband for Manchester City's visit to the KC Stadium on Sunday a strange one, with few supposing the Brazilian to be a natural skipper.

However, Hughes has stated that he would do the same thing over again, as he was impressed by the way Robinho adapted to the responsibility.

"I thought he was great," said Hughes."I saw signs against Spurs the previous week that Robinho was ready and willing to take more responsibility.

"On that occasion he was always making himself available, always wanting the ball and with 10 men covered as much ground as anyone else for the team.

"He was brave in possession and led from the front at Hull once again. I am sure he enjoyed the experience. He seemed to enjoy meeting the referee before the game and he took it extremely seriously.

"I thought the armband was something that he deserved and that he relished. Who knows if he is long-term captain material? He has certainly done his claims no harm with what he did at the KC Stadium.

"He was always looking to accept the ball in key areas and his link play enabled us to attack with real purpose. Maybe people don't give him enough credit for his bravery and his determination to win with City and that was evident in the performance that he produced."

And Robinho received backing from the City players too, with in-form midfielder Stephen Ireland stating: "People think he might not be able to communicate but he does talk and he inspires and leads through what he does on the pitch.

"He is quick to take up positions, to make space for his team-mates and he works so hard for the side. It was fair that he was given the armband."

Club captain Richard Dunne missed the trip to Hull through suspension, but should return to the side, and regain the captain's armband when City face Arsenal at the weekend.

Zack Wilson, Goal.com