Blackpool goalkeeper Matthew Gilks is rubbing his hands in delight at the prospect of pitting himself against the Premier League's most lethal marksman next season.

Following the Seasiders' unlikely promotion to the top-flight last weekend, at the expense of Cardiff City, Gilks will now be in the firing-line of some of the world's top strikers, including Wayne Rooney, Didier Drogba and Fernando Torres.

Gilks will face a busy season between the sticks with Blackpool, who are already tipped as favourites for relegation with the bookmakers.

However, the former Norwich City and Rochdale 'keeper is remaining positive about the upcoming experience.

“I’ve just played in front of 82,000 at Wembley. It is what you dream of as a boy," he told the Daily Mirror.

"That is why you play football, you want to get to the top and play in front of the big crowds and show them what you can do.

“It’s going to be a bit daunting at certain places but we will go there fully committed and we are going to enjoy it as much as we can.

“I won’t feel like a Premier League player until I play in it. But playing there will not change me at all. I will still be the same player I was at Rochdale.

“I am 27 now and you never stop learning. But I have confidence in myself and confidence in the team and that is important.”

Blackpool came from behind twice to beat Cardiff in the Championship play-off final at Wembley, eventually running out 3-2 winners and earning a return to the top-flight for the first time since 1971.