KEVIN Foley hopes to nail down the right-back slot at Wolves next season but admits he faces fierce competition from Ronald Zubar and Richard Stearman.

The 26-year-old was due to win his sixth cap for the Republic of Ireland against Northern Ireland last night in midfield.

And yet it was also in the middle of the park leading the team to victories against the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool that he says was his highlight of the season just gone.

“I’ve been pleased with my form this season. I have to say my most enjoyable part was playing central midfield when I was captain,” he said.

“There’s no greater honour for me than to lead the lads out and win a handful of games. Towards the end of the season I was back in at right-back and next season we’ll have ‘Zubes’ back fit and ‘Stears’ as well so there’ll be plenty of competition for places.

“It’s something I’m looking forward to – with the aim of trying to nail down the spot with some good performances.”

Foley says Wolves’ 17th place was always the aim for this season.

“I said from the start this season that it was going to be way tougher than last season,” he said.

“That wasn’t only with the quality of teams that came up but also the increased expectation that goes with your second season.