Manchester City have sold more than 30,000 season tickets with eight weeks still to go before the start of the new campaign.

Manager Mark Hughes has already strengthened his squad by signing striker Roque Santa Cruz from Blackburn - who is being presented to the media on Wednesday - and England midfielder Gareth Barry from Aston Villa.

These are exciting times for City under the wealthy ownership of the Abu Dhabi United Group and that has been emphasised by the support from the fans.

Chief executive Garry Cook told mcfc.co.uk: "We've always known that City fans are passionate and unswerving in their support for the club.

"The impressive take-up of Seasoncards already shown simply underlines that loyalty."

City open the season on August 22 when they face newly-promoted Wolves.