Hughes optimistic over Barry fitness

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes expects Gareth Barry to shrug off a groin problem in time to face former suitors Liverpool on Saturday.

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Barry: Picked up a groin injury on England duty

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Barry, who was close to joining the Anfield club from Aston Villa before moving to Eastlands in May, suffered some discomfort following England's defeat by Brazil in a friendly last week.

Hughes said: "Gareth came back from the international with a little bit of soreness but it should not be a problem for the weekend."

It was Barry's fifth outing for England this season and Hughes intends to give the midfielder a rest at some stage.

"It is a long season and he is more than capable of dealing with that but there are going to be times where we will have to protect him," Hughes told the club's website.

"We are mindful of the fact that Gareth has played so much for us and for England. We want to keep him fresh and well for key games."