Just going through all the emails I got while I was off sick and came across this from my NI mate after poor wee Aarondite played at right back for NI in March:

>>L, Thought you would appreciate hearing that Aaron Hughes played at the right side of a three last night and gave the worst display from any player at any level that I have seen since Steve Morrow against the Republic of Ireland in 1994. He was awful, and directly culpable for at least 3 of the 4 goals.

Love

S

-- Anonymous, May 04, 2001

Answers

Imagine if Warren Barton was playing for them though!

-- Anonymous, May 04, 2001

If Warren Barton had been born in Northern Ireland he would still have no international caps

-- Anonymous, May 05, 2001

Barton has got international caps though, 4 for England

-- Anonymous, May 05, 2001

Actually, while not a left back, I have to say, that Hughesie gets forward well when not in the centre and also puts in some great balls. OPTA were recently on about how good he is at crossing and passing. Having said that, his left foot was only just starting to improve last season and he hasn't been playing on the left this season, so it's not surprising that he wasn't wholly comfortable yesterday. Still the Toon's shining light.

-- Anonymous, May 06, 2001