Manchester City boss Mark Hughes has backed Robinho to cope with the rough stuff that is sure to come his way in England.

Samba import Robinho has made an impressive start to his Premier League life, bagging two goals in three games for the Eastlands outfit.

Whilst few deny that the 24-year-old's silky skills are sure to make him a hit when it comes to entertainment, critics remain convinced that when the going gets tougher the Brazilian is sure to fall by the wayside.

It's a train of thought that Hughes has been quick to rubbish.

"If players have not experienced away games against physical sides, it can be an eye-opener for them. But we are talking about top-quality players here," Hughes told the Daily Express newspaper.

"Robinho has played in huge matches all over the world in very intimidating atmospheres and I don't think a great deal fazes him."

"He takes it all in his stride, he has great belief in the amount of talent he has, and rightly so.

"He understands that against any team he can have an effect on a game," he added.

 City and Robinho's domestic campaign continues on Sunday when they entertain high-flying Liverpool.