City eye 'quick' Johnson deal

England Under 21 midfielder in Hughes' plans

By James Dall   Last updated: 24th July 2008

Johnson Michael

Johnson: In Hughes' plans

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Manchester City manager Mark Hughes has reaffirmed the club's intention to retain the services of Michael Johnson.

The midfielder demonstrated his potential during the early stages of last season before injury disrupted his campaign.

Reports have suggested a number of clubs are monitoring the 20-year-old's situation at Eastlands.

However, Johnson's representatives recently claimed they had held 'positive' talks with the club over a new contract.

Hughes is keen to keep hold of Johnson, and is hopeful of tying him down on a new deal 'very quickly'.

"We have had no enquiries for him and Michael is a big part of what we want to do here," Hughes told the Manchester Evening News.

"He has great potential and it doesn't surprise me that good players like him should attract interest from elsewhere, but from my stance I very much want him to stay and, hopefully, we can resolve his contract negotiations very quickly."

Jo loss

Meanwhile, Hughes has admitted his frustration at losing Brazilian striker Jo to the Olympics this summer.

He said: "We're a little frustrated. Ideally, we'd have preferred him to stay with us but it's a high-profile competition and we look on it as something positive.

"The type of players Brazil are taking with them show it's viewed in a great light in their country.

"He's part of a very select few players who've been given the opportunity to win the Olympics for Brazil, which they have never done. He'll benefit from the experience."