Northern Ireland captain Aaron Hughes enjoyed his experience at Crewe Alexandra

Northern Ireland captain Aaron Hughes, 35, praised the 3,000 supporters who attended yesterday’s International friendly at the Alexandra Stadium. Michael O’Neill’s side were held to a 1-1 draw by Qatar in Crewe and Hughes was delighted with the facilities on offer to the players and fans.

Following the A’ International at Gresty Road, Hughes told crewealex.net: “I thought it was a fantastic place and a fantastic day. You don’t really know what to expect with it being a friendly game in preparation for a qualifier.

“You are never sure what it will be like but the support was great. There were over 3,000 supporters here and it was a great effort and a great turn out.

Hughes, who has been capped 96 times for his country added: “The facilities at Crewe were great and everyone was well looked after and that is all you can ask for. It allows us to just go out there and concentrate on our football. I enjoyed it and the support was fantastic.”