Hughes backs Brazilian magic to sweep away Brighton blues

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WIGAN: Manchester City boss Mark Hughes is backing £32.5mil striker Robinho to help banish the hangover from an embarrassing midweek trip to Brighton. City were left red-faced after losing on penalties to the side from Division Three in the League Cup. But Hughes has shrugged off the setback as he prepares for today’s short trip to Wigan. “In defeat sometimes you learn more than when you win,” he said. “We’ll take it all on board and look at what positives there were.” Robinho missed the Brighton fiasco after been given a few days off this week and Hughes could see the benefit of that mini-break in the Brazil striker’s training. “What has struck everyone is that you can see the enjoyment Robinho has in his day-to-day work,” said the former Manchester United, Barcelona and Wales star striker. “He has a smile on his face when he comes to training. “Everyone associates him with flicks and back-heels. His general work, though, is very correct. “He has a great understanding of what is needed. That is the skill all top players have. He is a great talent. “Robinho needed time out during the week as he has had a lot surrounding him. He has had a period in his personal and football life where a lot of decisions were made. “He had issues back home as well that needed resolving, so it was more about clearing his mind. “He is back fit, well and looking forward to the weekend. Hopefully we will reap the benefit.” Hughes will also recall goalkeeper Joe Hart, England international duet Micah Richards and Shaun Wright-Phillips and Brazilian midfielder Elano as he looks for a repeat of last Sunday’s six-goal demolition of Portsmouth. Wigan clinched a place in the last 16 of the League Cup with a comfortable 4-1 victory at Ipswich and have looked impressive this season thanks to some astute summer acquisitions by manager Steve Bruce. The former Manchester United defender insists he does not envy the resources that his old team-mate Hughes now enjoys, saying the support he has received from Wigan owner Dave Whelan has been perfect. “I think there are pangs of jealousy coming my way sometimes when I look at the chaos going on at other football clubs,” Bruce added. “I’ve got a chairman here who lets you get on with it and manage the club the way it should be managed. He gives you a free rein with what you want to do and I have no real outside interference. “I’m very pleased with the job I’ve got, I’m enjoying the challenge of it immensely and I hope that continues.”