CITY FIXTURE CONGESTION EASED

Mark Hughes' men are in European action.

Manchester City have avoided an early-season fixture pile-up which could have dented their hopes for a successful European campaign.

City, by virtue of their qualification for the UEFA Cup via the Fair Play league, were the ninth Barclays Premier League side to qualify for continental competition last season.

The other eight all get a bye into the Carling Cup third round, but the balance of the draw means that a ninth cannot be allowed to miss the second round.

It could have led to Mark Hughes' men having to play a Carling Cup second-round tie in the week commencing August 25, when they already have a UEFA Cup second qualifying round second leg away to Danish side Midtjylland on the Thursday.

But after discussions between the club, the Football League and the Football Association, City will now be allowed to play their Carling Cup tie in the week of the third round, which starts on September 22.

If City get to the fourth round, that will be fitted in at a later date. The second-round draw is next Wednesday.