Mark Hughes

Cesc: Is it true you used to play for Barcelona?

Mark Hughes: Yes.

Cesc: Well, that wasn't Barcelona football.

Some people viewed that as an act of petulance by Cesc Fabregas. The fact that Cesc quickly apologized to Mark Hughes afterwards goes often ignored. Mark Hughes didn't need to tell the story, but it was entirely in his right to do so. I've never forgotten the remark though.

People think Manchester City are on the verge of doing big things. On paper, they have a squad capable of finishing in the top four.

They have played three and won three. Although, take one look at their opponents and the fact that they've only scored four goals and you'll see that I'm reminded of the line spoken by Harvey Keitel in Pulp Fiction. "Well, let's not start sucking each other's dicks quite yet."

I may be wrong, but I don't believe Mark Hughes is a great manager. Do you think a great manager would ever be questioned in the way that Cesc questioned Mark Hughes? I would argue that none of the truly great managers have ever played so negatively as to inspire such a reaction. I'm sure Hughes would argue at the time that he's making do with what he has, but now that he has no excuses, we shall see.

The manager is just as important as the squad. Look at how Diego Maradona is doing with Argentina.

Time will tell, but I wouldn't be surprised if the good times train is temporarily derailed on Saturday for one sky blue club.