Hughes wants 'less hysteria' over City

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Craig Bellamy's altercation with a fan during the Manchester derby was the latest in a series of negative stories about the Eastlands outfit, which have included complaints from Everton over their pursuit of Joleon Lescott, the treatment of former skipper Richard Dunne, allegations of inducements being offered to young players and Emmanuel Adebayor's conduct in the win over Arsenal earlier this month.

"It seems that on a daily basis we have to defend ourselves," he said. "All we are looking for is a little bit of balance and less hysteria."

City learned on Tuesday night that Bellamy will not face an FA charge for his altercation with the United supporter at Old Trafford on Sunday.

The fact City find themselves in the headlines so often these days is a measure of the additional interest now being focused on the club. But, as with the case of Bellamy, Hughes is not convinced all the assessments are fair, with the Blues' behaviour being questioned at times when there has been no real need.

"We understand where we are and deal with that because it comes with the territory, but let's have a bit of balance," he added. "At the moment it seems people are quick to jump on certain things that they perceive need to be highlighted, and then try to force the issue in terms of what decisions should be made."

As newcomers to the top table, it has been argued City are an easier target and are therefore getting a raw deal from the game's powerbrokers.

The fact Gary Neville only received a £5,000 fine when he celebrated in a very similar manner to Adebayor following his goal against the Gunners - for which he is now facing a misconduct charge - is a case in point.

Hughes is determined not to become paranoid, feeling he must place his faith in the FA and Premier League to do their jobs in an even-handed way.

"You have to believe that, because if you don't there is a huge problem for everybody," he said. "It is difficult at the moment because everyone has a view on everything that's going on."