SPANISH STAR ROD PLEDGE TO FANS
BRIGHTON fans already have one former La Liga marksman to cheer in Leonardo Ulloa, but David Rodriguez says he is very different from the Argentine.
Seagulls boss Oscar Garcia landed Rodriguez on a deal until the summer on deadline day after the 27year-old was released from his contract at Celta Vigo.
He and 6ft 3ins Ulloa have met in Spain, and the diminutive Rodriguez believes he is a foil to the big man not than more of the same.
The Spaniard knows he will have to fight for a starting place at The Amex but has vowed to win over the Brighton fans.
“Leo and I are totally different players, but I know him from when I played against him when he was at Almeria, and he’s a player who can make a difference,” he said.
“Whether I play up alongside him though is not for me to say – that’s more to do with the coach and the system he wants to play, but now I want to help the team improve.
“I’m a hard-working player – that’s one of my biggest assets along with my speed – but the most important thing is to get the fans behind me and to play well.”
Rodriguez had a frustrating season in La Liga with just five appearances – and no goals – after four-years at Celta.
His career started at Atletico Madrid before spells at Salamanca, Almeria and Sporting Gijon, and he is desperate to be a success in England.
“It’s been a difficult season, however signing for Brighton has compensated that, and hopefully my season can now start again,” he added.