A Leeds United cult hero has made a surprise move to La Liga with Athletic Bilbao
Leeds United cult hero Andrew Hughes has landed a role as a set-piece coach in La Liga with Athletic Bilbao.
The 48-year-old is a popular figure among the Elland Road faithful, having endeared himself to supporters during his three years in LS11.
Between 2007 and 2010, the utility man made 139 appearances for the Whites and helped the club secure promotion from League One in his final season.
Andrew Hughes proved popular during his three years at Leeds United.placeholder image
Andrew Hughes proved popular during his three years at Leeds United. | Steve Riding
He moved into coaching post-retirement and has worked for the likes of Sheffield United, Sheffield Wednesday, Huddersfield Town and Rotherham United.
Hughes was most recently employed by Leicester City at club level and was part of Scotland’s coaching set-up at the World Cup.
Andrew Hughes lands new role
He has now landed a role in Spain’s top flight with Bilbao, forming part of the team assembled by newly-appointed head coach Edin Terzic.
A club spokesperson said: “Englishman Andrew Hughes will be the set-piece specialist. He will join the team next Monday, having worked in that capacity with Scotland at the World Cup.
“The Manchester native has been part of the coaching staff at clubs such as Crystal Palace, Leicester City, Norwich City, Sheffield Wednesday, Sheffield United, and Bolton Wanderers.”
Andrew Hughes worked alongside David Wagner at Huddersfield Town and the pair were later reunited at Norwich City.placeholder image
Andrew Hughes worked alongside David Wagner at Huddersfield Town and the pair were later reunited at Norwich City. | Jonathan Gawthorpe
Cult hero status at Leeds United
Hughes is still remembered fondly by Leeds fans, despite having plied his trade at Elland Road during a turbulent chapter in the club’s history.
He arrived in the aftermath of Leeds’ relegation to the third tier and it was not until his third and final season that the Whites managed to reclaim Championship status.
Hughes could operate in central midfield or at full-back and was renowned for his work ethic. After leaving West Yorkshire, he went on to represent Scunthorpe United, Charlton Athletic and Bolton Wanderers before hanging up his boots.