Northern Ireland captain Aaron Hughes has been denied a fitting home finale to his international career at Windsor Park on Friday night after being ruled out of action through injury.
Hughes recently announced his decision to retire from the international scene at the end of the current EURO 2012 Qualifiers to concentrate on his club career with Fulham FC.
A groin injury will stop Hughes adding to his 78 caps on Friday night and after more than a decade of outstanding service will sadly not have the chance to play on one final occasion at Windsor Park.
Speaking of his decision to retire from the international fold recently, Hughes said:
“After thinking long and hard, I have decided to retire from international football after the final two Euro 2012 qualifiers, to concentrate on my club career and hopefully prolong it for another few years,” said Hughes.
“I have always felt very proud and privileged to play for my country and it has also been a great honour to captain the side.
“It has not been an easy decision, however after speaking with players, managers and my family, I knew it was the right time to call it a day. I also knew in my own head it was the right time.
“I would like to thank everyone for their support over the years - managers, players, fans and my family.
"I have played under some great managers and have enjoyed every minute playing for Northern Ireland and hopefully we can get a good finish to the Euro 2012 campaign.”
Northern Ireland currently reside in fifth place in Group C, five points behind second placed Serbia. Following Friday night's match against Estonia at Windsor Park, Nigel Worthington's team will travel to Pescara to face Italy on Tuesday night.