Hughes made his Sunderland debut in 1967 at the age of 18-years-old and went on to net 81 goals in 335 appearances during 11 years with the North East club.
He also scored four times in the famous 1973 FA Cup – including the winner in the semi-final against Arsenal. Here, we take a look at some photos of the Hughes during his playing days.
Scroll down and click through the pages to view them.
1. 1971:
Back row (from left to right): Dick Malone, Cecil Irwin, Ritchie Pitt, Brian Chambers, Ian Porterfield, Dave Watson and Gordon Harris. Front row (from left to right): Paddy Lowrey, Billy Hughes, Martin Harvey, Bobby Park, Jimmy Montgomery, Derek Forster, Bobby Kerr, Dennis Tueart and Mick McGiven. Photo: R. L. Palmer
2. 1973
Billy Hughes heading the ball against Cardiff. Photo: Sunderland Echo
3. 1973
Library file, dated 5/5/73 Billy Hughes and Jim Montgomery hold the FA Cup as they circuit the pitch after Sunderland beat Leeds. Photo: PA
4. 1971
Billy Hughes raises hopes of another goal for Sunderland when beating both fullback John Sewell and goalkeeper Ray Goddard in a determined run. Photo: Sunderland Echo