HUDSON LOOKS TO FA CUP TIE

City defender looks ahead to life under new manager

After meeting new boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for the first-time, captain Mark Hudson was impressed with what the new boss had to say ahead of tomorrow’s FA Cup Third Round tie against Newcastle United.

Speaking to the press at The Vale Resort this morning, the 31-year-old leader enthused about his new boss.

“We met him yesterday and he spoke really well,” said the City club Captain. “He’s looking forward to the task ahead and so are we. It’s exciting times. This is a new quest for all of us.

“It’s difficult for any manager to come in and speak to all the players and staff at the one time but he got across what he wanted to achieve  We’re all looking forward to working with him.

“He stressed to us that we need to enjoy life in the Premier League,” continued Hudson. “He wants to play attacking football which I’m very excited to be a part of.

“He’s been coaching for a long time and has come through at an amazing club so he knows the game inside out as a player and a coach. He’ll add a lot to us.

“The manager has inherited a great group and one that is really tight knit as we all stick together and work. You can see that with the performances.”

After being a mainstay in the Championship winning team last season, first-team opportunities have been limited for the City man this campaign so far.

But ready to continue his push for a place in the starting eleven, Hudson said: “This is a new start for me, as there are fresh eyes looking at the team so I’ll be looking to get myself into the starting line-up.

“I know what I can add to the team and it’s down to me to show what I can do.”

Tomorrow, Cardiff will pay a visit to St James’ Park where they will look to get Solskjaer’s reign off to a winning start.

Hudson is also looking forward to meeting up with former manager, Alan Pardew who he has worked under previously.

Ahead of the match, Hudson said: “It’s an important game as the manager will want to set his stall out right away and put his stamp on things.

“I know Alan Pardew well as he signed me for Charlton. They are a top ten side and it’ll be a tough game.”

WATCH MARK HUDSON AND OLE GUNNAR SOLSKJAER GIVE THEIR PRE FA CUP VIEWS BELOW