Hughes announces international return for N. Ireland

Fulham defender Aaron Hughes has announced his return to international football with Northern Ireland.

Hughes, who has been capped 79 times for Northern Ireland, made his senior debut on March 25, 1998, at home in a 1-0 friendly win against Slovakia.

He scored his first international goal in Northern Ireland’s 4-0 win in the Euro 2012 qualifier against Faroe Islands at Windsor Park on August 10 last year.

Hughes’ last game was the Euro 2012 qualifier away to Estonia on September 6, after injury ruled him out of the last two qualifiers at home to Estonia and away to Italy.

Hughes said: "I have thought very carefully over recent weeks about returning to play for the National team, since my decision to retire at the end of the last campaign.

"After speaking with the new manager, Michael O'Neill, and also Billy McKinlay, who I'm obviously close to at Fulham, I feel I would like to once again return, and try to help us qualify for the next World Cup.

"I am proud to represent my country and it is my aim to contribute as much as I possibly can for the upcoming matches."

Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill said: "Aaron and I met during the week and had very positive discussions and I am delighted that he has decided to come out of retirement. Aaron is a truly excellent professional and this is a massive boost, not only for me, but also for the squad."