Alex Bruce is determined to prove himself at Hull City.
The defender admits he could've left the Tigers in the summer.
"There were offers (to leave) but I wanted to stay. I have worked a long time to get into the Premier League and I didn't want to give it up," said Bruce to the Hull Daily Mail.
"I realise a lot of people out there will say, 'He's only in the Premier League because of his dad'. But I have a thick skin when it comes to comments like that.
"I like to think those who have watched me play will say I am there on merit and can hold my own. If I can keep playing like I did at Liverpool then, hopefully, I can keep the shirt on merit.
"That is always my target. When the time is right and I think, 'I am not pulling my weight here' then, of course, I will be the first to walk away.
"But I am happy here. I feel I have played the best football of my career here. We have been successful and I don't see any reason why I should leave."
