Jones is ready to challenge George

Daniel Jones insists he has come of age and found his true position – and he’s ready to challenge George Elokobi as Wolves’ chief left-back.

The Wolverhampton 21-year-old has flitted in between left-back and left midfield since making his debut under Glenn Hoddle in April 2006. But after 33 League games on loan at Northampton last season – spent largely at left wing-back – he believes he knows where he wants to play.

“I think I’ve developed. I personally feel I am a left-back because I’m better coming onto things instead of having the ball at my feet, then having to turn and start running,” said Jones.

“When I made my debut, I got caught out quite a few times positionally.

“No disrespect to the defenders at Northampton, but they’re not as good as the ones here but I still think I’ve learned a lot over a season. I just want to learn and be as good as I can be. But if I have to play left wing, then I’ll play there.”

Elokobi made the number three role his own after his £500,000 move from Colchester in January.

But even with Michael Gray and Charlie Mulgrew still hovering for a place – Mulgrew could complete his move to Swindon this weekend – Jones believes he can challenge to be first choice.

“The gaffer has been quite good to me – he’s said if I do well in pre-season, I’ll get my chance,” he said.

“He’s told me I’ll get games but it’s down to me really. I want to play my football at the highest level possible.

“If I can’t do that here then I’ll need to look elsewhere because I’m at the age now where I need to be playing week in, week out.

“I’ll play wherever he wants me to play as long as I can play. I want to play as many games as possible.”

A Wulfrunian from a family of Wolves, there’s nothing Jones would love more than to win a place with his hometown club.

But he is out of contract at the end of next season and if he can’t force his way in, then he knows he will have to reluctantly move on.

“I’d love to make the breakthrough here but if I can’t, then I need to play elsewhere.”