July 11 2007

Selhurst Park

Crystal Palace star Jeff Hughes insists he can make the step up to Championship level with ease.

Hughes, 22, signed from League Two outfit Lincoln City for an undisclosed fee last week.

The left-back says he can't wait to get started with the Eagles and is aiming to win a place in the Northern Ireland side.

"It's a huge leap, a big challenge and I hope to find my feet really quickly," he said.

"I'll play wherever I'm asked to play. Hopefully I can claim a regular position and try and push my way into the team.

"Playing at this level will hopefully catch the Northern Ireland manager's attention. I haven't been involved in a while, the last time I was called up was when all the young ones were picked. But hopefully I can get a call-up and get a run in the squad."