MARK Hughes believes City have laid out the blueprint for an upturn in fortunes.

Hughes has lost both games since taking charge but was encouraged by how well the team adapted to his change in approach in the last-gasp defeat against Swindon.

“I’m seeing them trying what we’ve talked about,” he said. “Everybody wanted to get on the ball and pass and move and they’ve been brave enough to do that.

“It’s difficult to embrace a slightly different way of playing and they’ve been prepared to do that.

“I think they understand that long term that is the right way and the best way for them. We’ll get better at it, I’m sure.”

Jamie Walker and Nathan Delfouneso are both back in contention for next weekend’s trip to leaders Forest Green. The pair did some running on the pitch before Saturday’s game but were not in the squad.

Hughes added: “Jamie joined in last week for the first time so he’s a little bit short. Nathan was poorly on Thursday and missed training so it was difficult to involve him.

“But both will be available for this week which will be another good challenge against a team doing well.

“Swindon were another team highly thought of at this level. But I thought we dominated them for long periods, so there’s no reason why we can’t give a good account of ourselves.

“The performance pleased me. We keep doing that and the results always follow, it’s a given.

“You just need a bit of a run of the ball – maybe spinning left instead of right – that’s all it takes to allow you to score a goal and win a game.

“I’ve been in football this long and know it’s fine margins. You do your best and give everything to change those things around yourself.”