The 26-year-old winger has been recalled for the World Cup qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Belarus, eight months after winning the last of his 19 caps. It is reward for a string of good performances following his £9m return to City from Chelsea in August.

Wright-Phillips has weighed in with four goals and caught the attention of England coach Fabio Capello in the process. Hughes expects his man to rise to the challenge.

"Shaun's quick and is experienced at international level. His recall is justified and it won't faze him in any way, shape or form," he said. "He came back here a much better player, with more experience, and he understands what it takes to affect a game.

"Shaun is also a great guy who works extremely hard for his team-mates and his work ethic is without question. Mr Capello has recognised those qualities and that's why he is back in."

Hughes added: "We are absolutely delighted for him, it is just reward for an outstanding start he has made to the resumption of his City career. He came back to a club he knows well, he is playing with a smile on his face and everyone is benefiting."