"I don't see any reason why we can't challenge for a place in the top six. It is going to be difficult because there are some very good teams in that division but we've got players who have played in the First Division and the Premier League.
"I definitely think we will hold our own. It's not as if the First Division is a new thing to the players at Cardiff. The step up should not be a problem and I am confident we will be pushing for a place in the play-offs," Whalley told the Western Mail.
"I think the First Division will suit our style more. There is a lot of long-ball football in the Second Division and a lot of hustle and bustle."
Whalley gambled on dropping to Division Two and it's paid off, he will be a leading player for the Bluebirds in the first division.
"I'm sure Sam Hammam will invest in some new players because he wants to take the club into the Premier League. When it comes to investment, I don't think City will be behind the door. I made a gamble joining Cardiff last summer, but winning promotion has vindicated my decision."
Whalley supplied the ball over the top for Andy Campbell to race onto and score at the Millennium Stadium. It was a sweet way to end a season that threatened to be ruined by serious ligament damage sustained by a wreckless tackle on him at Barnsley last November. Whalley only made it back into the starting line up for the last couple of games of the season but his simple effectiveness gave City a far greater quality in midfield and to end with the pass that set Campbell away is fair reward for the injury battle he has had to overcome.