Jeff Hughes is aiming to get over his Crystal Palace jitters and cement himself in Peter Taylor's first-team plans.
On the back of his competitive Eagles debut against Ipswich Town last week, Hughes made his Selhurst Park bow on Saturday, starting in the 1-0 defeat against south London rivals Charlton Athletic.
But by his own admission the left-sided midfielder cum defender's first Selhurst Park outing was on the tentative side, while Taylor revealed his summer acquisition from Lincoln City suffered with nerves during the pre-season friendly against Anderlecht.
And Hughes has acknowledged the start of his Eagles career has been effected by his nervous disposition - but insists he can overcome the fear factor to become a key player for Taylor's side.
He said: "There were a few things around the box against Charlton where I felt I should have done better - but I got a bit nervous.
"Hopefully if I can get a few more games under my belt I can get better.
"The only way I can combat the nerves is getting in the team and playing games because then I can get used to it relax a bit more.
"I've felt a bit jumpy in and around the box so hopefully I can get over the nerves.
He added: "Everybody has nerves - it's just how you handle it. Once I get into the game I'm okay but being at a new club and being part of a new scene is different - but I will be alright."
Hughes admits the step up from League Two is a massive jump up in class, but insists he is good enough to make the leap into Championship football - and even onto the international stage.
"My main aim this year is to try and get in the team which would be a big step up for me, said Hughes.
"I've got to be realistic - it's two leagues up, it's a different game all together. So what I need to do is try and get in the squad and then try and get in the team.
"Hopefully I can play well and keep my place."
He added: "I've played a few games for the U21's and I played a couple of times for the full side but that was in pre-season friendlies - but hopefully I can get a full cap. That's an ambition of mine and I've still got time to fulfil that ambition."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article