The 30-year-old, who relished the challenge of Leeds' 15-point deduction last season after joining from Norwich in August, insists now is not necessarily the time for fantasy football.

Hughes said: "Leeds needs players with a certain type of character. Players that can scrap and who won't buckle under the pressure.

"Leeds is now a hell of an attractive club to play for, but not all players thrive in front of such a big, demanding crowd.

"Leeds is the biggest club I've played for and ever will play for. You've got to see it as a privilege, players that will fight and scrap to get the club promoted.

"When the club is out (of League One) then they can buy the top, top players that Leeds used to have and who the fans deserve."