Preston North End's on-loan midfielder Matt James says he is relishing the experience of playing regular first-team football at Deepdale.

The 18-year-old joined North End until the end of the season from champions Manchester United in February.

"It's a good experience for me to come here," James told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"When I go back in the summer I'll see if I can impress the gaffer [Sir Alex Ferguson], but if not I can re-evaluate and see what happens."

James has made 12 appearances since being recruited by Preston boss and Ferguson's son, Darren.

And he admitted he would relish the chance to return to Deepdale should the opportunity arise.

He's a top man and you've just got to try and impress as much as you can Preston midfielder Matt James on Sir Alex Ferguson

"The time that I've had here has been great and I'd love to come back," he said. "I've learned a lot about the game and the fans have been great.

"The training's also been good and I've got on with all the players. I'll see the next six games out, try and do my best."

The England Under-20 international has scored twice since joining the Championship club.

He believes he is receiving the best possible education at Preston.

"It's been great playing league football week in, week out," said the Bacup-born teenager. "They are such a big club for a young lad to come to and obviously the connection with United through the years has been big.

"I asked the United manager [Ferguson Sr] what was the possibility of going out on loan. After waiting a bit he just said 'Matty, come to my office'. He then said 'Preston want you', and I pretty much snatched his hand off and said 'I'd love to go'.

"He's a top man and you've just got to try and impress as much as you can. Whatever he wants you to do you do because he knows what's best."

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