Hughes brought the England international back to Eastlands from Chelsea when he was City manager in the summer of 2008. He was hoping to sign the 29-year-old for the Cottagers but negotiations have hit a stumbling block - reported to be wages which City will not subsidise - which Hughes is not sure can be overcome. "We've enquired, that is well documented, but it seems that it is becoming more and more difficult and more things are being put in our way to stop us being able to conclude that," he said. Hughes has, however, brought in Chelsea forward Gael Kakuta on loan until the end of the season. "He is an exciting young talent and we were pleased we were able to bring him to the club," the Cottagers boss added. "He has got good technical ability and pace, which we maybe lack in certain positions." Hughes has not ruled out making more signings before next Monday. "We will look and see what is out there but in fairness we are getting close to the end of the window and anything we get in now we have to be certain it will make a real difference to us," he said. "We have a good group here but if there are other players who have different skill sets who might enhance it we would look at it."
