He comes across his old mates on Sunday, hoping for a change of fortune.
Hughes: "I always look forward to playing against Newcastle. It gives me a chance to catch-up with a few old friends. But more importantly, we've got to look for another good home result.
"I guess for the last ten years or however long it was, you couldn't have named a Newcastle side without Alan Shearer being in it, so it will be a little bit strange. But they're still as dangerous. They've got Shola doing well up front and the new lad Martins. So they've still got a bit up front.
"Obviously they've got Parker and Emre in midfield and with Damien Duff signing, they'll be a threat to our unbeaten start. Duff is a player who gives Newcastle flair, but he'll also work hard and track back too. So I think he was a fantastic signing for them - especially at £5million, that's an absolute bargain.
"Staying unbeaten would be a start. That's important at any time of the season and the longer you go unbeaten, it becomes a bit of a habit and confidence gets better."