Charlie Hughes (footballer, born 2003)

Charles Roger Hughes (born 16 October 2003) is an English professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Wigan Athletic.

Career
Hughes is a youth product of Manchester City and Liverpool, and moved to the youth academy of Wigan Athletic in 2017 as a U14. He was captain of their U18 side in the 2021-22 season. On 7 September 2021, he signed his first professional contract with the club. He made his professional debut with Wigan Athletic in a 1–0 EFL Trophy win over the Arsenal U21s on 25 January 2022. Hughes made his League debut on Boxing Day 2022 at the Riverside Stadium against Middlesbrough. He remained in the side for the remainder of the season, making 20 league appearances, and scoring his first professional goal on 29 April 2023 against Reading. Hughes signed a new four-and-a-half-year contract in February 2023, and then signed an improved deal a few months later, extending his contract until 2028. Hughes first captained the side on August 8, 2023, aged 19, for the Carabao Cup game v Wrexham and has since led the team out on many occasions throughout the season including the FA Cup 3rd round game against Manchester United. Nominated EFL Young Player of the Year 2023/24 after a stand out season.

International career
In November 2023, Hughes received his maiden international call up and made his England U20 debut during a 3-0 defeat to Italy at the Eco-Power Stadium. Hughes was capped again at U20's on June 7th 2024 when he captained the side against Sweden U21's, followed by 70 minutes against Republic of Ireland U21's on June 11th 2024.

Playing style
Hughes is a commanding ball-playing centre-back, who can also play in midfield. He is extremely comfortable in possession with an exceptional passing range. Strong in defence and exhibits strong leadership qualities, having captained the side on several occasions from 19 years old and for most of the 23/24 season.