Hughes hails returning star

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes has backed returning striker Valeri Bojinov to be better than ever once he is fully fit.

The forward, who has been injured since August last year, got on the scoresheet in the 2-2 draw at Stockport County.

The highly-rated 22-year-old damaged knee ligaments in city's Premier League victory over local rivals Manchester United last season and Hughes is eager to see the striker regain full match fitness.

Hughes said: "We're absolutely delighted that he's come back into the team and scored a goal.

"He's going to be a real plus for us this season and we've got big hopes that he's going to come back and be bigger, faster and stronger."

Hughes revealed that Bojinov has been impressive during training, but he won't be rushed back too quickly.

Hughes added: "His work in training has been really explosive and dynamic and I think once he gets match fitness that will help us."