Brazil international Robinho could finally return to action for Manchester City next week, according to manager Mark Hughes.

Robinho, who continues to be linked with a January transfer window switch to Barcelona, has been sidelined for over two months with a stress fracture of his ankle.

Hughes said:"The only problem is that he isn't fit and I can't play him (on Wednesday).

"That will resolve itself, we hope, in the next week or so. It is about him getting back playing and enjoying his football again. And that takes away any other focus on Robi."

City face Scunthorpe United in the fourth round of the Carling Cup and Hughes insists it is a competition his team can win.

He added:"There is no reason why we cannot do well in the competition and that is what we are aiming to do.

"I have picked strong teams and squads for it in the past. My intention for this game is to do exactly the same.

"We hope to do well in the domestic cups if we can. The Premier League is a huge ask for anybody to overcome some of the best teams, not only in Europe, but the world.

"That's the challenge every club in the Premier League has if they are to aspire to the top title."

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