Football: Hughes to break pain barrier

Monday 16 November 1998 19:02 EST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

MICHAEL HUGHES is prepared to play through the pain of a hernia problem for Northern Ireland in tomorrow's Euro 2000 qualifier against Moldova.

The Wimbledon winger's injury restricts his training and may ultimately require surgery but his willingness to appear is heartening news for Lawrie McMenemy. The Irish coach anticipated Hughes would have to withdraw from the match at Windsor Park when he heard that he had been substituted against Chelsea on Saturday. Hughes did not train yesterday, but he has assured McMenemy he will play tomorrow.

"There is no way I would want to miss this game, because if we beat Moldova then we will be top on six points with Finland and Turkey," he said.

Newcastle's Aaron Hughes, who strained a calf muscle on Saturday, became the fourth player to pull out yesterday following the withdrawals of Kevin Horlock, Jim Whitley and George O'Boyle. The Under-21 captain, Danny Griffin, and Luton's Phil Gray are called up.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in