Norwich City's new central defensive recruit Dani Ayala feels he is ready to stake a claim for a starting spot against Stoke on Sunday.

Ayala played just under 70 minutes in his debut for the reserves during midweek after completing a four-year move from Liverpool. The 20-year-old was heavily linked with both Swansea and Hull - where he featured against the Canaries on loan last season - but Ayala revealed a switch to Carrow Road to further his career was a logical choice.

'It wasn't a difficult decision to join Norwich,' said Ayala. 'I was at Liverpool but it was difficult – I have to play first team football and that's why I came to Norwich – to play first team football.

'Anywhere you go, you have to fight for your place. So I am happy to have the competition and, hopefully, I can be in the first XI on Sunday. It is a big challenge to stay in the Premier League, but I think Norwich have the quality to stay in the Premier League this season.'

Ayala could be in the frame for a place in Paul Lambert's matchday squad with Zak Whitbread (knee) a doubt after picking up a knock in the opening day draw at Wigan.