Ian Ashbee says victory over Swansea at the weekend was the perfect way to start the new season but insists that nobody will be getting carried away with the three points.

Ashbee bagged City's second goal in the 2-0 win, a fine way to mark his return to competitive action after 16 months on the sidelines, and felt there were plenty of encouraging aspects to build on.

"To start with three points was perfect," said Ashbee.

"The aim of every player is to get off to a good start. It wasn't a great game, but we stuck to the plan and the lads worked hard as always. It's good to get the win and bring some more confidence into the camp.

"The clean sheet was a bonus. We leaked a few goals last season and we want to try and put that right. We've got the defenders to do that and there's experience at the back. If you've got a solid base, you're halfway there in this league.

"Everybody will have gone home happy, but we'll all be keeping our feet on the ground. We've got a few players away on international duty now, so it's difficult for us to all train together this week.

"We've got some good young local lads in the squad who are great prospects for us and we've got to look after them. If we do that, we might be able to surprise a few people and get a bit of momentum going."

Having recovered from a second career-threatening injury, Ashbee was happy to feel the buzz of leading the Tigers out at the KC Stadium once again and is looking forward to the season ahead.

"It was a privilege again (to be captain). It's not something that changes my game, I would still be me (without the armband). But the manager wanted me to do it and I was more than happy to lead the team out.

"I've managed to get my one goal for the season, so that will do me! But seriously, I won't be settling for that and I might be able to have a bit more of a free rein when I get myself fully fit. I was towing a few caravans in the last 20 minutes but to get through the full 90 was pleasing."