Hughes hangs up his boots for management

Mark Hughes is to retire from playing football to become full-time Wales manager.

The former Manchester United striker has managed his country on a part-time basis over the last three years, while continuing his playing career with Everton and then Blackburn.

But after sealing a clean sweep of domestic medals as Blackburn won the Worthington Cup last season, Hughes was released by the Ewood Park club.

The 38-year-old is now set to hang up his boots and concentrate on trying to lead Wales into the 2004 European Championships in Portugal.

Hughes told the Daily Mail he is set to have talks with the Football Association of Wales to tie down a full-time deal.

He said: "I'll be talking with the FAW during the next few days and I hope we can iron everything out.

"I'm ready for a new stage in my life and I am very excited about the potential of the Welsh squad.

"I know we've improved since I've been in charge."