Fulham defender Aaron Hughes is relishing a break from football but said he will be back fresh and ready to go again for Fulham in July.
The 32-year-old former Northern Ireland captain featured in 33 of the Cottagers' 55 competitive games last season, which started almost 12 months ago in the Europa League qualifiers.
And, after helping guide Martin Jol's side to a third top-half Premier League finish in four years, Hughes is looking forward to recharging his batteries for an extra few weeks this summer and hopes to push the Cottagers on to bigger things next term.
"After the short summer we had last year and competing in the Europa League in June, it's nice to have a bit longer off after an extended season," Hughes said.
"I think it's a well-earned break for everyone.
"It's a chance to give your body and mind a rest and take it easy for a while and switch off for a little bit.
"Obviously we've still got to take care of ourselves but it's important to come back to pre-season in July feeling fresh.
"The young players this season have done fantastically well. We've had Matthew Briggs, Kerim Frei and Alex Kacaniklic all come in and impress whenever they've been given an opportunity.
"When they start to get more experience and play more games over the next few seasons, they will establish themselves because they look really good.
"There's a lot to look forward to next season and I, for one, am looking forward to coming back fresh in July ready to go again."