Bowen, an assistant to both Hughes and Bruce, did not travel with the Wales squad to Croatia for Wednesday's friendly.

Hughes was also left without the services of coach Eric Harrison, who was advised not to travel on medical grounds.

But with the opening Euro 2004 fixture against Finland only two weeks away, Hughes says he needs to know whether Bowen will continue to work alongside him.

"I need to have a decision one way or another, but I didn't think this was a situation that would develop," Hughes told BBC Wales Sport.

"But I need to have further discussions."

Bowen joined Bruce at Birmingham last December, having previously worked with the former Manchester United captain at Crystal Palace and Wigan

When he took up the post at St Andrews, Bowen admitted his role with Wales could be in doubt.

But after taking a full part in Wales' home friendlies in the spring, the matter seemed to have been resolved.

Bowen has apparently given Hughes his word he will be on the plane to Finland, but Hughes want a long-term assurance over his involvement.

"Mark's put in two years of very hard work and for him not to be part of what we're trying to do now would be terrible for him," Hughes added.

"I just hope we can resolve the matter and make sure he's involved with us."