City manager not worried by raised voices

And the air was certainly blue after the way Manchester City crumbled at Portsmouth two weeks ago in the Barclays Premier League, going down 2-0 at Fratton Park.

But the players responded by drawing with Copenhagen in the UEFA Cup - after being on the verge of victory - at the Parken Stadium and then went on to hold Liverpool at Anfield.
Hughes believes those battling displays had much to do with the heated post-match inquest at Fratton Park.

Hughes said: "Players raising their voices in the dressing room has happened for years and years.

"It certainly happened in my day, so there is no change in that respect. I think it is healthy.

"It is important players can voice an opinion in the dressing room. I have always encouraged that.

"I believe in self-regulation. It cannot always come from managers and coaches, it has to come from within as well.

"Our mentality in away games possibly had to change and the last two displays on the road have been excellent. We want to sustain that level of performance."

Hughes feels the arrival of striker Craig Bellamy from West Ham United is keeping everyone on their toes.

Bellamy, who worked alongside Hughes when he was Wales manager, has settled in quickly after arriving in the January transfer window and found the target against Liverpool.

"It is important to have players with his mentality as it is good for the dressing room," added Hughes.

"I needed to bring in a guy that had drive, personality and outstanding pace. With Craig's qualities and his desire to succeed, then it was a very simple equation for me.

"The fact that he can stretch teams can help other players and our team in general."