Grant praises versatile Hughes

Andy Hughes has been given a vote of confidence by Canaries boss Peter Grant - despite him making the midfielder's life “an absolute nightmare”.

Hughes has proved to be Mr Versatile in recent weeks as Grant tries to patch up the gaps left by injuries: he's played at right back, right wing, midfield and even centre-half.

His latest role was one he is slightly more accustomed to - a short-notice call-up to cover for injured skipper Adam Drury at left-back on Boxing Day.

With Drury doubtful for this afternoon's home game against Queens Park Rangers and the Monday trip to Crystal Palace, Hughes is likely to get the nod again, but he will step out with words of praise from Grant ringing in his ears.

“I have not got many options,” admitted the City boss. “He's played there a couple of times now and I know he has played there before for Reading - he is just desperate to play in the team and there are not many options we have at left-back.

“It must be an absolute nightmare. There are always these guys you call utility players, you knew they were always playing but you didn't know where they were playing.

“I feel sorry for him. I know he had a difficult time before I came and putting him in different positions doesn't make it easy for him whatsoever.

“He has been into every position and given 100pc and played very well. His commitment in trying to do well is second to none.”

Hughes had a tough time on Boxing Day against Southend's tricky right winger Jamal Campbell-Ryce, but was thrown into the lion's den when Drury pulled up with a hip injury in the warm-up.

“He played against a very difficult boy who a natural left back would have found it difficult against,” said Grant. “He battled away against him and that is one thing you can guarantee with him - he will give you 100pc commitment to try and do well.

“He knows his faults, he knows his failings, but the one thing you can never question is his commitment.”