Wick supporters' player of the year Alan Hughes enjoying right-back role
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Alan Hughes admits it has been a tough season for Wick Academy but says he is relishing his role at right-back – and admits that he hates missing out on any game.
The 27-year-old has been one of the club's most effective and dependable performers and his consistency was recognised on Saturday when he was voted as the supporters' player of the year for 2022/23. He was presented with the George Munro Memorial Cup after the 2-2 draw with Lossiemouth on the last day of the Highland League season.
"I've always played on the wing and more recently Gaz [Gary Manson] wanted me to play right-back," Hughes said.
"I really enjoy playing at right-back now, getting forward and also the defensive side of the game. It has worked out all right.
"I hate missing games. I enjoy the crack with the boys, I enjoy travelling with the boys.
"But it is tough week in, week out, especially this season having to go to Inverurie and Keith in midweek. And it's always hard at this stage of the season – you've picked up a lot of injuries throughout and it is difficult for everyone to band together and get a squad."
Hughes is optimistic about the prospects for the next campaign.
"Onwards and upwards," he said. "If we can get a few boys back, like Davie Allan and others, that will make a massive difference, and if we get a good pre-season under our belts I'm honestly confident in the squad we've got.
"We've got some good players there, and the management team as well. I cannot fault them, I can't fault their commitment.
"We just need to get at it next year with a few players in and see how it goes."
Hughes accepted the player of the year trophy from George Munro's great-grandson Danny Gow.
