The Tigers enjoyed a good start to their maiden season in the top flight, losing only one of their first nine matches to rise briefly to the top of the table.

However, they managed only two wins in their remaining matches to plummet down the standings and were only spared a quick return to the Championship by Newcastle United's 1-0 loss at Aston Villa on the final day of the season.

But with Barclays Premier League status secured, Brown believes that his team can kick on and consolidate their position amongst the elite.

And the former Bolton Wanderers defender, who turns 50 on Saturday, believes his team could even be challenging for a spot in Europe in the near future.

"A European place would be the ultimate aim, either through winning a trophy or by way of standing in the Premier League," said Brown.

"How long that would take, I've got my personal ambitions. All I can say is that it will be in the near future."

He added: "We're looking at proven Premier League players, players with history in the Premier League. There is money available and there's a lot of work to be done in attack and defence. Hopefully, the improvements will come in both penalty boxes."