Aaron Hughes has been appointed as technical director for the Irish Football Association. A Northern Ireland veteran, the former Newcastle United defender earned 112 caps for his country - placing him third on the all-time list.
His new role means he will oversee the development of elite men’s and women’s football in Northern Ireland. As a player, Hughes’ long career at international level saw him awarded an MBE for services to football in 2020.
The 42-year-old - who emerged through the youth ranks on Tyneside in the late 90s - now holds one of the most important positions in British football. Speaking to the IFA website, Hughes insisted he is relishing the chance to represent his nation again.