New signing Alberto Bueno checked in for his first training session with Derby County today after joining the Rams on a season-long loan from Real Valladolid.

The Rams' first-team squad were given the day off after returning from their training camp in Spain yesterday.

Such was Bueno's desire to take in a training session; he asked to join in with the under 18s as they prepared for their Premier League Academy game with Blackburn Rovers tomorrow.

He exclusively told dcfc.co.uk afterwards: "I am very happy to be here at Derby County. I hope I can help the team have a great season."

The 22-year-old former Real Madrid forward speaks little English, and is eager to learn more in the coming weeks.

He added: "I am learning. I want to settle quickly and I look forward to being able to speak to the fans soon."

Derby coach Johnny Metgod has been impressed with Bueno's attitude by attending training on a day off.

He told dcfc.co.uk: "Alberto didn't even have to come to England until Sunday, but he is that keen to hit the ground running he has come over early.

"Also, today was scheduled day off for the first-team but he wanted to train and asked to train with the Academy.

"This is the kind of attitude the lad has and it is for this reason we are confident he will settle quickly and do well for us."

Bueno will train with the first-team in the UK for the first time on Monday ahead of next Saturday's npower Championship fixture with Sheffield United.