Monaghan great Eugene ‘Nudie’ Hughes says his GAA background has helped him adopt a positive attitude in regards to his on-going health issues.

Considered by many to be the Farney County’s greatest ever footballer, Hughes was diagnosed with cancer in 2018 and, while the diagnosis came as a shock to him and his family at the time, he hasn’t let the illness stop him from enjoying life.

Speaking on BBC Sport NI’s The GAA Social podcast this week, the three-time Ulster championship winner said: "I remember when I was first asked away back, 'how are you managing it?' I said 'I treat it like a football game.

"I've been part of a GAA family. You're not going to get the wind against you all the time, there is going to be a second half, you will get a break somewhere along the line. I'm playing against the wind a good while now so I'm waiting for a breather."

He added: "I have plenty of support from my family and friends, which makes a big difference. People say 'you're always in good form'. Nine out of 10 I'd be in good form because you have to assess what you're able to do and how you influence people beside you, how you face people and they look up to you and you carry yourself well.

“The GAA has given me that attitude. Positivity is a massive help in all battles."

🗣️ "It was just unbelievable"

Monaghan icon Eugene 'Nudie' Hughes says the county's Ulster Championship final triumph in 1979 was his greatest day as a player 🏆#BBCGAA pic.twitter.com/iOGGKu2dRm

— BBC SPORT NI (@BBCSPORTNI) February 19, 2025

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