Hughes (left) has given his backing to fellow manager Pearce

Rovers' FA Cup quarter-final victory was played out to boos and scenes of growing unrest from City fans.

Hughes said: "Stuart's a strong character and I'm sure he's strong enough to deal with the pressure."

Pearce expressed sympathy with City's supporters and said: "We're all frustrated, that goes for the fans, but it's important I shield the players."

Interview: Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes

Interview: Man City boss Stuart Pearce

Blackburn's win was City's fourth defeat in five games in all competitions and the third time Rovers have beaten them this season.

Hughes said: "Management is a difficult job and if you're not winning games then you will come under pressure."

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Despite being reduced to 10 men, Rovers finished comfortable winners, leaving City's players to leave the pitch with chants of "You're not fit to wear the shirt" coming from their 7,000 travelling fans.

In addition to their FA Cup exit, City have been dragged into the Premiership relegation dogfight and face defending champions Chelsea at Eastlands on Wednesday.

Pearce's response to questions of whether his job was under threat was: "It is irrelevant to me whether it is or isn't.

"As a manager you're only one game away from being under pressure.

"There is not a good deal wrong at this club but at the moment results are not good enough and it's up to me to turn it around.

"One thing is for sure, I have got to go in and pick up 36 players to get ready to face Chelsea."