It is fair to say that the 2008-09 season was not only Aaron Hughes’ best as a Fulham player, but possibly the best of his 12-year career.
The Northern Ireland captain shone at the heart of the Whites’ defence; his performances were often faultless, impressing all at Craven Cottage with his cool composure and poise on the ball.
His understanding with fellow centre-back Brede Hangeland is nothing short of outstanding, with Hughes featuring in all of the Whites’ 38 Barclays Premier League games last season with the 29-year-old missing just 39 minutes of action all season.
Hughes came through the youth ranks of Newcastle United and since his breakthrough he has remained one of the league’s most consistent performers and enters his third season in SW6 full of optimism having experienced two universally contrasting seasons.
With more than 60 caps for his country and a number of European campaigns under his belt - he made his Magpies debut in a Champions League clash with Spanish giants Barcelona - Hughes’ experience will again be vital as Fulham look to build on their impressive 2008-09 campaign.
On the 4th December 2009 Fulham FC confirmed that Aaron had agreed a new deal with the Club which will see the Northern Ireland captain remain at Craven Cottage until the summer of 2013.