Former Northern Ireland captain and defender Aaron Hughes has said he is “honoured and humbled” to be recognised in the New Year Honours list.
The 40-year-old, who won 112 caps before announcing his retirement in June, has been awarded an MBE for services for football.
On his official Twitter account, Hughes - who made his international debut as a teenager in 1998 - thanked everyone who had supported him during his career.
He wrote: “I’m extremely honoured and humbled at the news that I’ve been awarded an MBE.
“Football has given me so much, but I never imagined it would bring me an award of this stature.
“Thank you to my family, friends, colleagues, and everyone who has helped and supported me during my career.”
Hughes, who starred for Northern Ireland at the Euro 2016 finals in France, played his club football with Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Fulham, QPR, Brighton and Hove Albion and Hearts.
He also enjoyed brief stints with Melbourne City and Kerala Blasters in Australia and India respectively.
Irish FA president David Martin said the former defender was “very deserving of this recognition” for an “outstanding career at the highest level.”
He added: “Aaron represented out country with distinction on 112 occasions and is one of the all-time Northern Ireland sporting greats.
“He demonstrated a remarkable consistency throughout his 22-year professional career.
“He was never red carded and is a true role model for any young player looking to be a full-time footballer.”
Hughes is Northern Ireland’s third most capped player behind current captain Steven Davis (117 caps) and legendary goalkeeper Pat Jennings (119 caps).
Keep up-to-date with all the very latest news, what's on, sport and everything else in Belfast and beyond with the Belfast Live app.
Only select news that interests you by picking the topics you want to display on the app's homepage. Plus, our enhanced user experience includes live blogs, video, interactive maps and slick picture galleries. Download it now and get involved.
Click here to get it from the App Store or here for Google Play .
