Exeter Chiefs' Craig Mitchell hopes to face Perpignan

Mitchell only featured on one of Wales' matches at the 2011 World Cup

Exeter Chiefs Welsh international prop Craig Mitchell is aiming to get his first start in Friday's European Challenge Cup match at Perpignan.

Mitchell made his debut as a replacement in the 24-19 loss to Gloucester on Saturday after returning from World Cup duty with Wales.

"I've come here to push for a starting place for the Chiefs," the 25-year-old told BBC Radio Devon.

"Hopefully I'll be involved, whether it's off the bench or starting."

Mitchell has won nine caps for Wales and played in their crushing 81-7 win over Namibia in New Zealand.

He signed a deal to join Exeter back in March after more than five years with Welsh side Ospreys and says he is adapting well after coming into the squad after two months of the season.

"It's not your normal thing but the boys have helped me in learning the calls and stuff and made me feel welcome and I've settled in well," he said.

"I'm playing a bit of catch-up but it's happened and I've had to do it.

"I want to play regular rugby and win games and creep up the table as the season goes on - that's pretty much my only goal," he said.