Villarreal striker Roberto Soldado says that his return to La Liga is turning out to be better than he ever could have expected.
Soldado, 30, moved back to Spain from Tottenham in the summer following two years in which he struggled to settle to life in North London, scoring just seven goals in 52 Premier League appearances.
Since arriving at Villarreal, however, the former Valencia man has gone on to score twice in three La Liga games, while also picking up the club's Player of the Month award for August.
"I couldn't have wished for a better welcome and on a sporting level, we have started well, which is the most important thing," Soldado, who cost Tottenham a then-club record of £26 million, is quoted as saying by AS.
"Coming back has surpassed all of my expectations -- I couldn't have imagined that it would be as good as it has been so far. I was really keen to come back to Spain, and above all to a club which has everything it needs to do things well.
"We know we've got great potential in attack and in defence if we play as a team. The players who arrived over the summer are trying to get to know each other so that we can enjoy a good understanding out on the pitch.
"For the moment, it's working out well and the team is creating lots of chances -- we have to continue down this route and keep scoring a lot of goals, which is what counts."
Villarreal, who are currently fourth and remain unbeaten after three La Liga games this season, start their Europa League campaign on Thursday against Rapid Vienna.
"It's always nice to be involved in European competition and especially when you have a squad with depth and quality like Villarreal's," Soldado said.
"It's important that all of the players in the squad are given minutes and that we are all ready to compete when we are called on. All of us want to play every game and we have to make the most of the chances we are given.
"I hope Villarreal can go as far as possible in this competition -- that's what we are all working for."