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Manchester City manager Mark Hughes has refuted suggestions that his team must finish in the top four this season in order for him to avoid being labelled a failure.

The Welshman feels that such an assessment of the situation is simplistic and does not allow for the kind of steady progress he wants the club to make.

"With the resources we have, people are saying the top four is the minimum requirement. That is actually not the case," said Hughes, according to Press Association Sport.

"The clubs you have to overcome to get there are not just the best teams in the Premier League, they are also some of the best teams in the world.

"That is the challenge for everybody. And it is very difficult.

"What we are looking for is progress and I would defy anyone to say we have not made progress from where we were last year.

"However well prepared you are, however well organised you are, or how much thought goes into a plan to bring success to a club, sport is a difficult business. It is fluid.

"Ideally we can get to March and April and be in the mix for competitions. If we are, then we will have a good run at them.

"But it is an education for everyone to see the scrutiny that comes with being a big club. Everything is changing about the perception of Manchester City.

"That is a learning process for everybody and is something that will never be the same again."

City hit a relative trough in form just prior to the international break, drawing five games in succession.

Hughes is pleased with his team's record so far this campaign, though he acknowledges that finding consistency is key for future success.

"We have played 13 games in all competitions and we have been beaten once," he added.

"Ideally we would like to have changed some of those draws to wins but we have reached a consistent level that allows us to compete in every game.

"In terms of where we were last year and where we are now, it is a different place. I pleased with the progress we are making and that will continue. I am certain of it."

Zack Wilson, Goal.com UK