"It is a similar-sized squad as last year - around 30 if you discount the apprentices - but I believe it is a lot stronger," said Hugh in today's Daily Mail. "I am really excited about the season ahead and can't wait to get into the real action.
"Pre-season has gone great because we had no one involved with the Lions - Gordon Bulloch was leaving anyway - and there was no Scotland tour this summer. It has been a real novelty and a tremendous bonus to have six weeks with virtually the whole squad together. All in all, I believe we have a very special bunch of playern."
The article also claims that Hugh will announce another new signing, a Rugby League convert, within the next few days.
Glasgow have their usual injury concerns. Donnie Macfadyen is unlikely to play for at least another three weeks and scrum-half Sam Pinder, centre Graeme Morrison and prop Euan Murray are also out, at least until the friendly against Newcastle a week tomorrow.
"But it could have been a lot worse," points out Hugh. "I believ we have a powerful pack and a great set of backs. I am confident we can improve on our sixth place in the Celtic League last season and do well in Europe."
Hugh has also thrown his hat into the ring for the job of Scotland head coach. "Yes, I will defintely be applying," said Hugh. "I will do so within the next few days. I think my CV will be fairly readable."
Hugh has been successful with Scotland B and A teams in the past and was assistant coach to Jim Telfer when Scotland won the last Five Nations title in 1999. The A team achieved their own version of the Grand Slam under Hugh in 1998.
"It is always a challenge working with Scotland because the resources have not been the best," he said. "But it has been immensely enjoyable and I think I could claim to have reasonable successful in the roles I have had.
"In the 1999 Five Nations, my responsibilities were with the line-out and the scrums and they were rated pretty highly. I have happy memories of those times because the thing you do get with Scottish players is real enthusiasm.
"The last couple of years as head coach with Glasgow have extended my experience, if anything, and, having been involved day in, day out with the pro game here, it has developed my appreciation of how modern rugby should be played - and I also have a good idea of what is achievable."