Luciano Becchio hopes his first Norwich City goal can help press his claims for a regular Premier League role for the Canaries.

The Argentine powered home a trademark close range header in the club's opening 3-0 USA tour victory over the Mexicans Dorados de Sinaloa in Sacramento.

Becchio was largely deployed from the bench over the closing weeks of the previous campaign following his January window arrival from Leeds, but the 29-year-old remains convinced he can make a successful transition from a prolific spell in the Football League. City have recruited Ricky van Wolfswinkel during the summer but Becchio admitted the departures of a host of other strikers could work in his favour.

'Maybe, yes. I don't know what the gaffer thinks but I am ready for the opportunity,' he said. 'I can play in the Premier League. Why not? I can score some goals at this level to help Norwich stay in the Premier League. It is now better for me that I have this pre-season, I am starting the season with the rest of the lads. We are all together from the first day. It was difficult for me when I first came to Norwich. It was halfway through the season and I had to get used to a new team and new players. I was on the bench a lot and that was difficult.'

Becchio's maiden strike was carved out by his one-time Elland Road team mate Robert Snodgrass.

'I know Robert. I played with him for years so I know his crosses and everything about his game,' he said. 'The goal I scored in this game is what my strength is. I like to wait in the box for some crosses and chances on the goal.

'Of course I am happy to score my first goal for Norwich but it is pre-season, no, I want to score in the league and I want to keep playing in the league. I think we can do even better than last season but we need to take things slowly. The main thing is always to stay in the Premier League. It is a tough. No matter how long you have been here. Norwich have been here three years now.'