Aaron Hughes aims for 'huge' win for Northern Ireland

NORTHERN IRELAND captain Aaron Hughes says it would be "huge" if they could put Italy to the sword tonight in their Euro 2012 qualifier at Windsor Park.

Hughes will lead the side out against the former world champions on the back of a terrific win over Slovenia last month.

Asked about the importance of getting a positive result against Italy, who are going through a transitional period, the Fulham defender said: "It would be huge.

"We said at the start that you try to pick up what you can on your travels. This is our first home match in the campaign and to get something from it would be massive."

Windsor Park will be packed and Hughes added: "It does play a part, having that home ground and that atmosphere.""