KNIGHT rider Lee Jackson reckons York should aim high and go for promotion in their first season in the National League.

The 33-year-old former Great Britain international is confident the Knights could have a good run in the Buddies National League Cup before setting their sights on the league.

"To get to division one next season has to be the aim and, you never know, we could get into Super League one year," he told the Evening Press.

"It is a new club and I think it can go a long way if things go right and I want to be part of that.

"It's going to be another challenge for me. It's totally different to what I'm used to and hopefully I can come up roses.

"I did not think I was ready for retirement.

"I'm enjoying myself playing and my fitness levels are good and my body feels okay so I wanted to keep playing."

Jackson said his friendship with Knights player-coach Paul Broadbent was a major factor in his decision to come to Huntington Stadium.

"I've played alongside Paul at Hull, Sheffield and Great Britain and I've toured with him (with GB)," he said. "I've known him for a few years and we're good friends."

Jackson, re;eased by Hull, admitted he had held talks with several clubs but his preferred choice of staying in top-flight rugby for an incredible 18th year never materialised.

"York came in for me, negotiations started and I said 'yes'," he explained.

"I spoke to a few clubs but decided to sign for York. Like anyone else I want to be in Super League as I feel I can play at that standard but that wasn't to be so I'm concentrating on playing for York City Knights."

Jackson will not have an official coaching role at the club but hoped his know-how could rub off on his team-mates.

"If I can help out in any way I will gladly do that," he said.

"Hopefully, I can pass on the knowledge I've gained to the younger players coming through the club and help to progress their careers.

"Hopefully, some of them can end up playing in Super League as well."

Jackson's honours include the Premiership with Hull in 1989, the Australian Grand Final with Newcastle Knights in 1997, the Challenge Cup with Leeds in 1999, 17 Great Britain caps, and eight caps plus World Cup experience with England.

A delighted Broadbent said: "Lee could still be playing in Super League and his signing brings credibility to what we want to achieve with the Knights."

Updated: 12:30 Saturday, December 14, 2002