Strikers hold key – Hughes

MARK HUGHES accepts Manchester City will be judged by the quality of their strikeforce – which is why he is so keen to bring Samuel Eto’o to Eastlands.

While speculation continues about the imminent arrival of Carlos Tevez, who is now a free agent after the expiry of his two–year ‘lease’ arrangement with United, Eto’o remains at the top of Hughes’ summer wish–list.

City have not given up on their hopes of signing the 28–year–old from Barcelona, even though this week’s indication has been that Eto’o would remain at the Nou Camp.

And, after assessing the Cameroon star, Hughes is convinced Eto’o is the man for the job.

“He is a world star and a European Cup winner, the type that scores you 23 goals a season,” said Hughes.

“With those types of player you know exactly what you will get – quality, a winner’s mentality and someone who will get people out of their seats.

“There is an old adage in football that you stand or fall by your strikers. There are times in games when things aren’t going particularly well when you need somebody with the ability to win games on their own.

“All the top clubs have them. If we can add players who can do it to the ones we already have, it gives us a better chance.”