Ministry Man
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HUGHES APPROACHED AS CITY AXE ERIKSSONMark Hughes is set to take over the Manchester City manager's job after Sven-Goran Eriksson left the club by mutual consent.
Blackburn Rovers have given Hughes permission to talk to City just an hour after the announcement of Eriksson's departure.
A Rovers club statement said: "Mark has made it clear to the board he would like the opportunity to talk to City.
"In view of this the board have decided reluctantly to give permission subject to terms and conditions acceptable to Blackburn Rovers being agreed with Manchester City in advance."
Eriksson's parting of ways with City comes as no surprise after weeks of speculation over Eriksson's future at Eastlands amid reports that City owner Thaksin Shinawatra was unhappy with how the Swede's first season in charge ended.
City chief executive Alistair Mackintosh said on the club's official website: "The Board of Directors and all at Manchester City would like to thank Sven for his efforts and contributions throughout the season and we wish him all the best for the future. Sven remains a friend of the club."
Eriksson added: "I have enjoyed my time at Manchester City very much indeed and in particular, I would like to thank the fans, players and staff for their amazing support over the season.
"I wish the club, and everyone associated with it, much success in the coming years."
Having spent over £50 million on assembling a new side on his arrival at Eastlands, Eriksson started his City career in promising fashion, prompting realistic hopes of Champions League qualification in the blue half of Manchester.
But his side lost their momentum after the New Year and ultimately finished in ninth place.
Nevertheless, City qualified for the UEFA Cup by way of the Fair Play League and their league finish was higher than the tenth place Thaksin had reportedly demanded upon Eriksson's arrival.
But, despite strong support from City fans for the former England boss, it was not enough too meet Thaksin's high expectations and City will now have to find a new manager before the start of the next campaign.
If Hughes does not take the job, other managers linked to the post include Luiz Felipe Scolari and Avram Grant.
Mike Hytner / Eurosport
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