18Aaron HughesDefender

It should not be the case, but outside of Craven Cottage Aaron Hughes is perhaps one of the most underrated central defenders in the top flight. However, within Fulham confines he is rightly one of our undisputed heroes.

Very few in his position read the game better, or are as composed and assured on the ball, and while certain team-mates have impressed at the other end of the pitch, Hughes’ faultless defending has given the rest a platform to build upon.

The acquisition of the Northern Ireland captain in July 2007 for a reported £1 million represents one of the shrewdest Fulham signings in recent years. His telepathic understanding with Brede Hangeland is also one of the Premier League’s finest; a partnership built on resilience, equanimity and two astute footballing minds.

Despite not playing as much as he would have liked during the 2011/12 campaign, Hughes finished the season strongly and surpassed the 200 appearance mark for the Club. In playing a significant role in Fulham’s recent progress, he is a popular figure on the banks of the Thames.

On the 14 September 2012 Aaron signed a contract extension with the Club that will see the defender remain at Craven Cottage until the summer of 2014.