Hughes is entering the second half of the two-year deal he signed at Elland Road last August, but he will ignore thoughts about securing an extension while he fights to secure his place in United's starting line-up next term.

Competition for midfield places is fierce:
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The 30-year-old played in 40 of Leeds' league fixtures last season but lost his place in Gary McAllister's starting team towards the end of the campaign, and he featured as a substitute in the League One play-off final.

Hughes said: "I've got this season ahead of me and anything beyond that is going to be down to how I perform.

"I'm best off worrying about playing well first and then seeing what happens. You don't have a right to a new contract and the main thing for me to think about at the moment is earning a regular place in the team."

Leeds target Jay Bothroyd, meanwhile, has revealed that he is still to decide on a transfer from Wolverhampton Wanderers to Elland Road.

United have had a bid for the forward accepted by Wolves, but Bothroyd said: "A decision hasn't been made yet as to where I'm going to be going so I'm training (at Molineux) until I hear otherwise.

"I'm just keeping my head down and keeping myself really fit."

A number of Championship clubs are said to be interested in Bothroyd, with Cardiff City the latest to be linked to the 26-year-old.