Source: Team_Talk
Hughes not bothered by reception
Hughes was handed a speedy reunion with the club where he spent more than 16 years in two spells as a player and one as manager when this season's SPL fixtures were announced.
The 44-year-old's final year in charge was a real rollercoaster, with Falkirk only avoiding relegation on the last day of the season but ultimately ending up enjoying one of the most successful campaigns in their history.
But runs to the last four of the Co-operative Insurance Cup and the Homecoming Scottish Cup final failed to appease a section of fans, who wrote a letter to the club's board demanding Hughes' dismissal.
Hughes can expect a hostile reception from that element on Saturday as well as from those unhappy he quit to take the Hibs job.
But there will also be many keen show their appreciation for his six and a half years at the helm.
Hughes said: "Football's a fickle game.
"But it doesn't bother me what kind of reception I get. I think that's part and parcel of football - as long as it's not bitter.
"You have to take it on the chin and go with it."
He added: "I'll always be grateful to Falkirk for the opportunity, not just as a manager but as a player. I had some wonderful times.
"Most of my friends from my football days at Falkirk are still my best friends.
"When I left Falkirk, I walked away with my head held high. I thought we brought success to the club."
As well as the fans, Hughes expects his former players to be up for putting one over their old boss.
"I'm quite sure a few of the Falkirk players will want to show their old gaffer what he's been missing," said Hughes, who is nevertheless keen to stay out of the limelight this weekend.
"It's not about me going back to my old club - it's about my players. In saying that, I've got one or two ex-Falkirk players in my team.
"What we have to do is have our focus, make sure we've got our football heads on Saturday and hopefully pick up the three points.
"It'll not be easy. Falkirk's a good side. I worked with half of the players there - I know how good they are."
Hughes still wants to strengthen his squad before the transfer window closes and revealed he recently had bids rejected for "one or two" players.
He refused to rule out moves for Arsenal youngster Anthony Stokes, who he had on loan at Falkirk three years ago, or Bairns midfielder Scott Arfield - though he admitted the latter was probably out of his price range.
He added: "When I go shopping with my wife, all she wants to do is buy everything.
"As football supporters, we want, want, want. As a manager of a football club, you just have to be patient."
Falkirk 13/8, Hibernian 13/8, Draw 23/10
