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Hughes not giving up on Terry and Adebayor

Ken Gaunt,Press Association
Thursday 16 July 2009 16:35 BST
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(Getty)

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes is continuing his pursuit of Emmanuel Adebayor and John Terry.

Hughes remains determined to land the two men even though there are suggestions Adebayor is not keen to leave Arsenal for Eastlands while Chelsea are adamant Terry is not for sale.

Adebayor knows as well there is stiff competition for places in attack at City following the arrivals of Carlos Tevez and Roque Santa Cruz, with Craig Bellamy also on board.

Terry is Chelsea's defensive rock but Hughes believes the England international is ready for a new challenge.

"We do need new players," Hughes told the Gulf News during a promotional visit to Abu Dhabi. "We are still in discussions (over Adebayor) and the talks will continue.

"We have got attacking-minded players but we are looking to bring other players to the club before the transfer window closes.

"We are also looking to strengthen the defence. Every transfer deal is difficult and has different problems.

"There are areas which we need to address but we are happy with our progress."

Tevez believes City might need a season of consolidation before winning silverware.

Presented to the local media alongside Santa Cruz and fellow new signing Gareth Barry, he said: "We will take some time to settle down. I am confident that we will make a strong bid to be among the top four in the Premier League.

"In my opinion we may need a season more before we can seriously hunt for trophies.

"It will also take some time for the City fans to accept me. As for the fans at United, I hope they do understand me and my reasons for leaving.

"They loved me a lot and gave me a lot of support and I have a feeling it will be the same here at City."

Meanwhile, Hughes will also take his side to Abu Dhabi for warm-weather training this winter.

The trip will include a match against the United Arab Emirates national team on 12 November.

Chief executive Garry Cook said: "This game is another way for us to interact with the community at a grassroots level."

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