Fulham defender Aaron Hughes has announced plans to retire from the Northern Ireland setup at the end of their Euro2012 qualifying campaign.

Hughes has earned 79 caps for his country since making his senior debut in 1998 but is calling time on his international career to focus on his domestic duties with Fulham.

"After thinking long and hard, I have decided to retire from international football after the final two Euro 2012 qualifiers, to concentrate on my club career and hopefully prolong it for another few years," Hughes told fulham.com.

"I have always felt very proud and privileged to play for my country and it has also been a great honour to captain the side.

"It has not been an easy decision, however after speaking with players, managers and my family, I knew it was the right time to call it a day. I also knew in my own head it was the right time.

"I would like to thank everyone for their support over the years - managers, players, fans and my family. I have played under some great managers and have enjoyed every minute playing for Northern Ireland and hopefully we can get a good finish to the Euro 2012 campaign."