The Welshman has been plagued by several injuries this season, with the likes of Robinho and Roque Santa Cruz missing a large period of the campaign.

Hughes looked on as the fit-again Santa Cruz scored his first goal for City in a 5-1 Carling Cup win over Scunthorpe United on Wednesday. Michael Johnson, who missed most of last season through injury, was also on target.

new signing

"We have got virtually everyone back now," said Hughes. "We have been able to rest players and the injured ones will be back for the weekend.

"We have a full complement of riches now to choose from, and we are delighted with the positives from this one.

"We gave Roque Santa Cruz his first game, and he was excellent.

"He got a fine goal and his movement and awareness of people around him was first class.

"He will now grow into his role here. And we had Michael Johnson finally back after his injuries. The goal he scored showed the quality he has, and thankfully he is back fit and well.

"You can then see the talent he has. He has been really missed and we now want him in the side more regularly. He'll be like a new signing considering he's been out for over a year with various injuries."

Hughes' side travel to Birmingham City in their next Barclays Premier League match on Sunday. City will be looking to keep up the pressure on the five teams above them after losing a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Fulham last Sunday.