Fulham and Northern Ireland defender Aaron Hughes has revealed that he was convinced to come out of international retirement by new coach Michael O'Neill.

The 32-year-old announced that he was stepping down from the international stage last September.

However, he then decided to come back into the set up for the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign.

"I have thought very carefully over recent weeks about returning to play for the national team since my decision to retire at the end of the last campaign," Hughes said.

"I am proud to represent my country and it is my aim to contribute as much as I possibly can for the upcoming matches.

"After speaking with the new manager, Michael O'Neill, and also [assistant] Billy McKinlay, I feel I would like to once again return, and try to help us qualify for the next World Cup."

Hughes, who made his international debut in 1998, has gone on to win 79 caps for his country.