Mark Hughes has again insisted he will be manager of Manchester City in August, despite rumours throughout the season that he will be replaced.
The former Blackburn boss has had an indifferent first season in charge, leading City to the quarter finals of the UEFA Cup, but watching defeats in domestic cup competitions to Brighton and Nottingham Forest.
Hughes' claim has also been backed up by City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak who has confirmed Mark Hughes will remain as manager next season, ending the intense speculation surrounding his position since the takeover by the Abu Dhabi United Group in August.
A host of names have been put forward to replace him but now Hughes, who admits that the stories about his future have been 'irritating' can start building the kind of team he sees will be able to challenge for honours next season.