Mark Hughes: Manchester City didn't produce against Birmingham
Published 23:42 01/11/09 By By James Nursey
Manchester City boss Mark Hughes admits their stuttering form has been a reality check for the ambitious club.
Mega-rich City started the season with four successive wins in the Premier League after a huge summer spending spree.
But the Abu Dhabi-owned Eastlands club have now drawn their last four top-flight games after being held 0-0 at Birmingham.
And the visitors were lucky to get a point after keeper Shay Given saved James McFadden’s second half penalty.
Hughes said: “We made a flying start this season and people were expecting us to win every game.
“That’s not going to happen this year. You can see right through the Premier League that everyone is dropping points.
“I’m sure that will continue and we’re not immune from that.
“This was a day where we needed to just knuckle down and try and get something out of the game.
“But we didn’t produce anything like we’re capable of.
“Maybe that’s a good lesson and we’ll be better in terms of what we can produce in similar games in the future.”
Given,33, signed from Newcastle in January for £6.5million, was man of the match for City as he made several saves - including a spot-kick.
Hughes added: “Shay played very well and we’re pleased that he did, obviously saving the penalty and other key moments kept us in the game.
“He’s an outstanding keeper and has been for the vast majority of his career.
“He’s produced it regularly throughout his career and it’s a credit to him.
“We’re very pleased that he’s with us.”
Brum boss Alex McLeish said: “We have come in the dressing room a little disappointed not to get the three points.
“Shay Given was the man of the match and put in another fantastic performance.”
