The Brazilian will escape disciplinary action as Hughes believes the player's remarks in a television interview were taken out of context.

Record buy Robinho, who arrived on transfer deadline day from Real Madrid for £32.5million, wants a radical change in the club's outlook.

Hughes has similar ambition and said: "Robinho is a big part of what we are doing here. He has had a huge impact and those comments are not going to change anybody's opinion of how he is doing.

"We all know where we are at this time and we are working to get better on a daily basis. The players know what we are trying to do.

"We want to build a focus in the team and are trying to get stronger both in a physical and mental sense.

"While we are finding that a little bit difficult it is not through lack of effort or lack of will.

"It is something all the top four clubs have. But we are not at that point in our development. It will come, though, because as we get better that mentality will be more robust."

Robinho's comments follow an outburst by fellow Brazilian Elano, who complained publicly about not getting enough game time at City.

Elano's actions resulted in a fine but Hughes has no plans to hit Robinho in the pocket.

Hughes said: "I view this as a different matter because people have jumped on certain statements.

"They are trying to emphasise the negative part of it. I think it is a phrase from Robinho that has been taken out of context and it should be viewed as it was given at the time.

"Some of the comments were taken in isolation and sound a little bit damning. But when you see the full interview and the tone in which it was given, I don't think people should place much emphasis on it.

"When you see the interview, it is done with a smile on his face. It is done with tongue in cheek as well."

City are aiming to bounce back following the derby defeat by Manchester United when they face Paris St Germain in the UEFA Cup at Eastlands tomorrow.

The French side also suffered a loss at the weekend, going down by a single goal to Rennes.

With two wins under their belt already Hughes can relax in the knowledge his side have clinched a place in the last 32.

However, he wants to finish the last two matches - they play Racing Santander in Spain in a fortnight - in style.

Hughes said: "There is a prize to be had. If we are to finish top of the group that is to our benefit. Hopefully that will mean an easier draw in the last 32.

"If we can get a positive result from this match that should be enough, and I feel we can make chances at home against any team.

"PSG are a good side. They need a decent result but it just depends on what significance they place on this competition.

"They have changed their team in previous rounds and protected their senior players for league games."