Midfield role for Wolves' Kevin Foley

Kevin Foley has been earmarked for more central midfield duties by Wolves boss Mick McCarthy.

The Republic of Ireland international was voted fans' Player of the Year in 2008-09 playing right-back.

But two of his three appearances have been in the central role after playing the second half of last season at wide right.

And McCarthy believes the 25-year-old has the football brain and mobility to play more in a midfield role.

"I've played Kevin in midfield because I know he can play there," said the boss.

"Kev's been versatile - right-back and right wing - and he's very comfortable with the ball. We'll have to play three in the middle from time to time and I like him in there because he's comfortable.

"He gives us another option in there."

After playing most of his career as a right-back, Foley still sees that as his natural position but is happy to slot in wherever he can.

"I've played midfield a few times and I was at right-back against Reading, which was nice," he said.

"Hopefully the gaffer still sees me as someone who can play in there but I love playing in midfield as well."

"I really enjoyed last season and, like any player, I just enjoy playing."

Foley admitted it's going to be difficult to win his place back at right-back.

"The main thing for me is just to be in the team because there's so much competition for places," he said.

"When you think about right-back there's Ronald, Richard and Greg Halford, and in midfield there are so many other quality players.

"It's the old cliché about how important it is to have competition for places."

"You know if your standards drop and someone comes in and do well that could be you out of the team for a few weeks or even longer.

"If you do get in the starting XI you've got to hold onto your place for as long as you can."