BLACKBURN Rovers defender Lucas Neill has admitted he's enjoying a new lease of life under forward-thinking manager Mark Hughes.

The Australian international, who will make his 175th appearance for Rovers against West Ham tomorrow, has returned to form with a vengeance this season, turning in some impressive performances for both club and country as a right-back and occasional centre-half.

At one point, several national newspapers even touted the 27-year-old as a possible transfer target for AC Milan.

Although it has since transpired those stories have little foundation, the mere fact Neill's name was ever linked with a club of Milan's stature is a sure sign of just how well he has blossomed under Hughes' shrewd direction.

"I've always enjoyed my football here, but especially under Mark Hughes," said Neill.

"I think the way we try to play suits my style, and the belief and responsibility the manager gives me, and what I have to do for the team, is good.

"We've got a great team here, the spirit in the dressing room is fantastic, everyone is working together and, as a result of that, I think results will come more regularly and we'll probably pick up more wins from games where, on paper, we probably don't deserve to get anything.

"So long may that continue."

The next six months are massive for Neill as he chases glory on both the domestic and international fronts.

After helping Australia to qualify for the World Cup finals for only the second time in their history, the former Millwall star is relishing the chance to represent his country in Germany next summer.

But, before that, he wants to help Rovers secure a top 10 finish in the Premiership, plus a possible appearance in the Carling Cup final.