Laurent Robert said Tuesday he was happy to return to "the best league in the world" even though he has signed for Premier League basement side Derby County.
The French winger, who could make his debut for the Rams this weekend against Wigan, has signed until the end of the season to help Derby in their uphill battle to stay in English football's top-flight.
"The Derby manager called my agent to say he wanted me and I came quickly because the quality and the atmosphere in the Premier League is the best in the world," the 32-year old told County's official website.
"Everything you see here at the training ground is professional. I am very happy because I signed this morning and for my head that is fantastic.
"I don't know the city but my family are coming over this Friday and I'm very happy to be back in England with Derby.
"The club's position here is a bit difficult but I'm here to put my experience in and work hard - that's it.
"I love football and I hope I will stay healthy."
Robert spent four, sometimes fractious, years at Newcastle and six months at Portsmouth before joining Portuguese giants Benfica two years ago. But he had been without a club since leaving Spanish side Levante in November.
Derby manager Paul Jewell, who signed Robert after seeing him spend several days training with the Midlands club, said of his new player: "His ability is unquestioned and I think this could be a really good bit of business for us.
"Laurent's key quality is what he can do with the ball - he can unlock the door, make things happen and produce a bit of magic."
That bit of spark
Derby are also on the brink of signing Wales midfielder Robbie Savage from Premier League rivals Blackburn Rovers. The two clubs have agreed a fee and Savage was at Pride Park on Tuesday to discuss terms.
The Rams hope to conclude a deal with Savage on Wednesday.
Jewell is also closing in on signing Hossam Ghaly from Tottenham Hotspur.
The 26-year-old Egypt midfielder, who has pulled out of the African Nations Cup in a bid to move to Derby, has been out of favour at White Hart Lane since throwing his shirt to the ground after being substituted by then Spurs manager Martin Jol in the final game of last season.
However, any move remains subject to Ghaly getting work permit clearance.
"We're not sure about his work permit situation but, all being well, he will be a Derby County player," Jewell said.
Derby, promoted via the play-offs last season, are 10 points adrift of safety and have won just one of their 21 league matches so far this term.
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