IT IS a question he has been asked several times since agreeing a move to Scunthorpe United.

But Andy Hughes insists the answer as to why he left promotion-chasing Leeds United is easy.

It is for the challenge.

The 33-year-old midfielder, who yesterday signed an 18-month contract with the Iron on a free transfer from Elland Road, is used to adversity – and he thrives on it.

Hughes was the first player to join the Whites following their 15-point deduction for administration in 2007.

And he believes the characteristics he showed then will be perfect for the situation he now finds himself in at Glanford Park.

"It's a challenging situation, but my characteristics suit that," said Hughes.

"I like a challenge.

"People have asked me, why leave Leeds when they're a few points off the top of the table and fighting for a place in the Premier League?

"But sometimes opportunities come in life where you feel like you fancy a challenge.

"I've been involved with Leeds, but not as much as I wanted to be.

"Scunthorpe's a club that likes to fight for things and a club that likes to prove people wrong about so-called punching above its weight.

"I found out about their interest last week when Simon Grayson (Leeds boss) told me.

"It was a quick decision for me because I'm not one who likes to hang around.

"The club wanted me and I wanted to go.

"There was interest from a few other clubs but I spoke to the manager and his beliefs convinced me to sign."

Hughes knows United boss Ian Baraclough from a spell at Notts County.

And, despite the Iron's lowly position, he is convinced the right man is in charge to turn their season around.

Scunthorpe's latest signing, who is equally at ease playing full-back as well as in the middle of the park, will come straight into the squad for today's clash with Burnley, where he hopes to quickly improve his new side's home form.

"I had a spell with the manager at Notts County and he was a good character then," said Hughes.

"I'd not really spoke to him for a few years but then he rang me up.

"He was a great character as a player and hopefully he is the same as a manager.

"I was delighted to be offered the chance to go to Scunthorpe.

"It's a challenge that I'm really excited about and I'm keen to get started as soon as I possibly can.

"I just want to come here and play.

"There's plenty of spirit in the Scunthorpe camp. I'm not coming because of a lack of spirit.

"I just want to be part of the set-up.

"I had my medical yesterday morning and then went straight to training.

"Training was short and sharp, so I didn't really get to speak to any of the lads.

"But I'll get to know them in the coming weeks."