Wednesday 7 September 2011 14:43, UK
Vicente Rodriguez insists he is in it for the long haul with Brighton - but has warned fans they may have to wait to see the best of him.
The 30-year-old midfielder, who has two La Liga titles and a UEFA Cup winners' medal to his name, admits he is lacking match fitness following his shock move to the Seagulls after leaving Valencia in the summer. Vicente had his first training session on Tuesday before being officially unveiled at a press conference at The Amex Stadium. "I think I have at least four or five more years left at a good level," Vicente told The Argus. "I have not come here for one year to finish my career, I want to improve here in England and to help Brighton to the highest level possible. "I was with a personal trainer to try to keep fit but it's not the same as playing. I need a couple of days to start again, get the fitness and try to play my best. "I am probably 40% match-fit at the moment but I think I can play a bit, not a full game. I need two weeks of training regularly. I am not ready to play to my best for a full game but I hope to be soon."