Hughes sounds warning over UEFA rivals Copenhagen

MARK HUGHES sends his City hopefuls into European combat again tomorrow night with a warning that FC Copenhagen are a tougher test than the feisty Danes who almost tipped them out of the UEFA Cup in August.
 
 Blues are among the favourites to go all the way to the final in Istanbul on May 20 after adding three top stars to the roster, but manager Hughes rates their rivals in the round of 32 as a tricky proposition.

 City only overcame virtual unknowns Midtjylland with the aid of a last-minute own goal and two Joe Hart wonder saves in a dramatic penalty shoot-out as they diced with an embarrassing defeat in the qualifiers.
 
  Hughes has boosted City's roster with Shay Given, Wayne Bridge and Craig Bellamy, but said: "It's still a difficult tie for us - they are a strong, fit side who are doing well, though they've not had too many competitive matches lately.
 
  "They are a similar team to Midtjylland but higher in the league and going well. Like most Scandinavian teams, they are big guys with a good work ethic who get around the pitch.
 
  "It's a good test for us. We're looking to get back on track and it's about time we did. It's about making sure we are in good shape for the home leg, being on the front foot with a positive result so that we can finish the job.

  "A draw would be OK. Ideally we'd like to score out there, that would leave us in good shape. But Copenhagen are conscious of the threat we have and will be looking to restrict our opportunities in the final third.

  "We weren't able to ask enough questions at Portsmouth and this is a good opportunity now in Europe to make a statement. People will look at our away form and ask questions about us, but we can only answer by winning games."

   Hughes will not consider sacrificing victory in Europe despite the pressing need to push on in the Premier League.
  
   He said: "Sometimes it can be seen as a distraction but trust me, when you do go out it's a missed opportunity. There's an emptiness there that we don't want to experience, and we have enough quality to go as far as we want.

  "You always need a slice of luck now and then in cup competitions, but hopefully we can get to the quarters or the semi-finals ... then anything can happen."