Last Updated: Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:20
Preston's Matt James is hoping to show he has what it takes to compete in the Championship while on loan from Manchester United.
The midfielder goes straight into North End's squad for Tuesday home match against Sheffield United and is eager to get a taste of first-team action.
He will officially join from United on Tuesday when the loan window reopens, and he is looking forward to his new challenge.
James told the club's website: "It's great coming from playing reserves to playing in the Championship, it's a massive step but I feel that I am ready for it and the manager and the management at Old Trafford feel that I am ready for it as well."
James is the latest in a long line of United youngsters being loaned to Preston and is joined at Deepdale by club-mate Danny Welbeck, a move which he hopes will benefit both players.
"There have been some great Manchester United players here, some who have managed the club as well," James said. "With Welbeck coming here that will help me a lot with settling in and stuff but I am sure the players will make me feel welcome anyway.
"I've played with Danny for quite a while and I am looking forward to playing."