Manchester City manager Mark Hughes says Craig Bellamy could return to action this weekend after ruling him out of the club's UEFA Cup tie.

The striker has recovered quicker than expected from the knee injury he suffered against West Ham 18 days ago.

However, Hughes has not taken Bellamy to Denmark for the match with Aalborg, preferring to let the striker get in shape for Sunday's Premier League clash against Sunderland. He said: “We are more hopeful for the weekend.”

Midfielder Vincent Kompany could return for the last-16 tie and will be given a late fitness test on his toe injury. Hughes said: “It is a lot better than it has been but he still has a little bit of pain.

“Vincent had a run-out for the first time yesterday and we will make a late decision on him.

“Hopefully, we will have the option because he will give us that little bit of strength in the middle of the park we maybe lacked at the weekend.”

Hughes insists there is no room for complacency despite having a 2-0 advantage from last week's first leg.

“They are a good side,” he said. “People shouldn't underestimate the task ahead of us.

They have caused good teams problems in the past and people shouldn't be distracted by how well we played in the first leg.

“They didn't play as well as people expected because of the manner of our performance. If they get ahead they are likely to cause you problems. We have to make sure we are in control of the tie.”

A successful run in the competition could give City their first trophy since 1976. Hughes said: “It'd be great for the team and the club. It is important to progress in European competitions. We have enjoyed it so far and hope it can continue.”