Chris Powell believes Mark Hudson has already made a success of his switch from Cardiff City to Huddersfield Town.

The 32-year-old centre-back’s debut came in Powell’s first match as manager against Middlesbrough at the John Smith’s last month.

Former Charlton Athletic, Crystal Palace and Fulham man Hudson has played in all five games since, helping keep clean sheets in two of them.

“Mark has settled in very well, and formed a good partnership with Joel Lynch,” said Powell, who has Anthony Gerrard returning from a calf injury.

“Huddy is playing as though he has been around for a number of years, not just a month or so.

“At this stage, he and Joel have the shirts, and they are producing the performances to keep them.

“It’s been tough on Murray Wallace, who is a good young player, and I have spoken to him about the situation.

“We also have Anthony Gerrard returning and Lee Peltier and Tommy Smith who can play the position, so there is plenty of competition and no room for complacency.”

Town are in Under 21 Premier League Cup second qualifying round action against Barnsley at the John Smith’s today (1.00).

Admission is £4 adults and £2 concessions, with the winners joining clubs with category one academies in the round of 32.

Those ties will take place in the week beginning November 24 or the week after that.