Hughes loving Saddlers challenge

Stephen Hughes believes Walsall are still League One promotion contenders

Walsall captain Stephen Hughes insists he is enjoying life in League One after turning his back on the Championship.

"I'm still enjoying it, that's the main thing," Hughes told BBC WM. "It's different obviously when you play at a bigger club with a bigger budget.

"It's a small club, a small squad, but we're all together and it's that togetherness I'm enjoying."

The 32-year-old midfielder turned down several offers to remain in English football's second tier to join Walsall.

Hughes, who started his career at Arsenal and left them for Everton for £3m in March 2000, arrived at the Banks's Stadium in August after spending four seasons with Coventry City.

And although the Saddlers have missed out in all three knockout competitions, he believes there is plenty to play for in the league, with the club standing 10th.

"Everyone says we're out of the cups and there's not a lot to play for," said Hughes. "But the players don't think that way and nor do the staff.

"We're going to give everything this year in the league."