LONDON - Manchester City’s Middle East owners have refuted rumours that team coach Mark “Sparky” Hughes is on his way out after the club’s dismal performances in most of the world’s prestigious football tournaments.

Hughes, however, faces a critical week, with monster clashes at home to Arsenal in the Carling Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday and Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday.

According to The Sun, Sheikh Mansour and chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak are believed to be willing to give Hughes time to turn the draws into three points as the club chases its first trophy in 33 years.

Hughes said: “Arsenal and Chelsea could be a big springboard for us. We’re all looking forward to going up against Arsenal. It will be a huge night. We have to be up for the challenge. I sense we will be.”

Asked if he had spoken to Khaldoon about the current situation, Hughes replied: “I don’t think that’s an issue yet.” (ANI)