Kilkenny, 24, helped Leeds win promotion to England's second tier last season and is setting his sights high again this term.

Speaking from a pre-season training camp in Slovakia, Kilkenny - who has played in the Premiership before with Birmingham City - said the example of newly promoted Premier League outfit Blackpool proved anything can happen in the Championship.

"There's no point in having no hopes when you go into a season because you want to do as well as you can," he told the Leeds official website.

"We have young hungry players at the right age and hopefully we can do it.

"We're looking to do well. You saw what happened last year with Blackpool and hopefully we will do well too."

Kilkenny is optimistic on a personal level he can enjoy a strong 2010/2011 season after enjoying his first full pre-season with Leeds, whom he joined in early 2008.

The Brisbane raised midfielder had missed the Whites past two pre-seasons due to Olyroos commitments and injury.

"It's been good out here (in Slovakia)," he said. "We've been away for a week and it's been good working hard.

"It's been hot, but it's good training in hot weather and that will help us be fit to push on to the Premiership."

Kilkenny was handed the captain's armband for the first time as he put in an impressive 45 minute performance in Leeds' opening tour game against Ruzomberok.

"It's an honour being captain and I enjoyed it the other night," he said.

"I feel I am vocal on the pitch and I thought we did well in the second half."

Fellow Leeds-based Aussie Patrick Kisnorbo was surprisingly included for the Slovakia trip as he continues he rehabilitation from a long-term Achilles injury which saw him miss the 2010 World Cup.

Leeds boss Simon Grayson explained Kisnorbo's inclusion for the camp was about keeping his mind fresh.

"It's going to be a long recovery for Paddy," Grayson said. "It's good for him to be around the group.

"When you're in re-hab you can spend a long time on your own working, and this is a good opportunity for him to be around the group.

"This keeps his mind fresh and gives him the chance to continue his work in a different environment.

"Paddy's got the best opportunity to be fit and come back even fitter and stronger than he started with us."

Leeds haven't confirmed a return date for Kisnorbo, but it is expected he'll be back close to full fitness late in the year.