Blackburn Rovers fans will be stunned to discover this morning that the club have allowed Manchester City permission to discuss the vacant manager’s position with Mark Hughes. A brief statement has been placed on Blackburn’s website and reads as follows:

“Blackburn Rovers can confirm that they have received a request an approach from Manchester City to talk to manager Mark Hughes with regard to him becoming their manager. Mark has made it clear to the Board that he would like the opportunity to talk to Manchester. In view of this the Board have reluctantly given permission subject to terms and conditions acceptable to Blackburn Rovers being agreed with Manchester City in advance. The club will not be making any further comment at this stage”

So there we have it, straight from the horse’s mouth. Hughes did state last season that he felt he may have to move on to reach his potential but the speed of Manchester City’s approach has surprised many. How the red side of Manchester view this move of a United legend to their rivals awaits to be seen.