Manchester City boss Mark Hughes is likely to field a weakened line-up for their UEFA Cup qualifier against Faroe Islands champs EB Streymur.

Foreign stars Elano, Vedran Corluka, Gelson Fernandes, Felipe Caicedo and Benjani have yet to return to pre-season training, after extended summer breaks.

And Sparky could risk a gamble by leaving them behind so they can concentrate on fitness work.

City No2 Mark Bowen said: "We have touched on the subject of whether or not they will play but won't come to a conclusion until we see how they are when they get back.

"We don't want to be risking players not ready to play."