Mark Hughes: Wales legend named as newly-formed Ruabon Rovers’ honorary president
Former Wales international Mark Hughes has been confirmed as newly-formed Ruabon Rovers’ honorary president.
The ex-Manchester United striker accepted the offer to take up the role with the Wrexham-based club, who are set for their maiden season in the 2020-21 campaign.
Hughes, who grew up in Ruabon, is one of Wales’ most successful players having enjoyed a glittering career with the likes of United, Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Chelsea.
Hughes attended Ysgol Rhiwabon in his hometown and was snapped up by Manchester United as a youngster, progressing through the Red Devils’ academy ranks before making his senior debut in 1983.
After receiving an MBE in 1998, Hughes, known as ‘Sparky’, was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list six years later.
The 56-year-old also represented Wales on 72 occasions, scoring 16 goals, before going on to take charge of his country between 1999 and 2005.
Hughes is currently without a managerial role after he was dismissed by Premier League side Southampton in 2018, but will now take up the role as honorary president of Wrexham outfit Rovers.
Last month the club confirmed they will be competing in the new North East Wales League Championship, which was formed as part of the Football Association of Wales’ restructuring to its divisions, next season.
In a letter penned to the club, Hughes said: “Thank you for your informed letter regarding the newly-formed Ruabon Rovers. I would like to accept the position of honorary president of Ruabon Rovers.
“Best of luck everyone. Great that the village is going to have a football club once again.”
Cliff Bennion, who represented local clubs Ruabon St Mary’s and Ruabon Villa, was appointed as the club’s manager earlier this week, with the rest of his coaching staff set to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
[Featured image: Chensiyuan]
