Charlton's new signing Bryan Hughes knew he had made the right decision to join Alan Curbishley's men when Birmingham boss Steve Bruce unveiled Julian Gray and Muzzy Izzet. The 28-year-old midfielder finally ended months of speculation about his future by putting pen-to-paper on a three-year deal at the Valley on July 1 and insists he has no regrets. Hughes made 30 appearances for Birmingham City last term, but still felt like a peripheral figure and rejected the three-year deal offered to him by the club in April. However, it has become apparent that Hughes felt backed into a corner by the timescale afforded to him over his decision, and that proved to be decisive. Despite interest from Everton, Bolton, Norwich and Leicester, Hughes jumped at the chance to link up with the highly-rated Curbishley and joins Stephan Andersen, Dennis Rommedahl and Talal el Karkouri as new boys at the Valley. Hughes spoke to givemefootball's Ian Clarkson about why he left St. Andrew's and his excitement at a fresh challenge.
Q:WHY DID YOU ORIGINALLY TURN DOWN THE CONTRACT WITH BIRMINGHAM CITY?
A:When the contract was first offered to me I wanted to wait until the end of the summer and see what was going to happen. But Birmingham wanted an answer there and then, and when the board pulled the contract it left me with no choice really. I knew Steve was planning to bring in quite a few players over the summer. This has been proven by the signings of Gray and Izzet, who could both play in my position.
Q:HOW DO YOU THINK BIRMINGHAM CITY WILL FARE THIS SEASON?
A:Steve has added Jesper Gronkjaer and Mario Melchiot to the three other signings he has made this summer and it proves that the club is going in the right direction. It is just a shame I couldn't be part of it.
Q:BUT YOU HAVE GOOD MEMORIES DON'T YOU?
A:Of course. When I arrived my remit was to help the club into the Premiership, which I have done, and no-one can ever take that away from me. I just wish that I had been able to play a bigger part since they reached the Premiership.
Q:WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON CHARLTON?
A:I just thought that it was time for a fresh start. It is also a very exciting time to be going to Charlton, as they only just missed out on European place last season.
Q:WAS ALAN CURBISHLEY A BIG FACTOR BEHIND THE MOVE?
A:I have spoken to Alan Curbishley a few times and he made it abundantly clear that he wanted me on board. It is nice to feel wanted and I have always admired Alan as a manager. The club has really looked after me and put my family and I in lovely rented accommodation.
Q:WHAT ARE YOUR AMBITIONS FOR THE CAMPAIGN?
A:We finished seventh last year and have already signed, Andersen, Rommedahl and el Karkouri, so there will be a lot of competition for places. I think the manager is trying to bring in another two or three players and that is exciting news. You need to have a strong squad to be able to compete in the top half of the Premiership. It will be important to shine in pre-season, but I am hopeful that I will have a good chance of playing as long as I am on form.
