LEE PELTIER believes Huddersfield Town will prosper in the Championship – despite helping derby rivals Leeds condemn his old side to a third defeat in four games.

The popular full-back and now Leeds skipper, who was given an ovation before kick-off by home fans at the John Smith’s, believes a solid finish is probable for Simon Grayson’s 1th-placed side.

He said: “The main thing would be to stay up seeing they’re new to the league. The start they’ve had shows they’re more than capable of doing that.

“Hopefully they can kick-on. They’ve got a good manager and I don’t see any reason why Town can’t be successful at this level.”

Peltier, who was at Town for two seasons from 2009-11, said of the ovation: “I was absolutely delighted. I had some great times here and I’ll never forget what the club has done for me.”

He added of Town’s promotion to the Championship in May: “It had been a long time coming, so it was great to see them do it.”

The Scouser, who counts Town loan striker James Vaughan among his best friends in football, had a reunion with former teammates after the match.

Lee Novak and Calum Woods were among those who enjoyed banter with Peltier, who played 103 times for Town between joining from Yeovil and leaving for Leicester.