Manchester City boss Mark Hughes knows he must show caution with Gareth Barry.

Whilst the midfielder is expected to shake off a groin injury to play at Liverpool on Saturday, the City manager knows he must protect the former Aston Villa star from burnout this season.

"It is a long season and he is more than capable of dealing with that but there are going to be times where we will have to protect him," Hughes said.

"We are mindful of the fact that Gareth Barry has played so much for us and for England. We want to keep him fresh and well for key games."

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