HE may not be world renowned and virtually 'untouchable' in any team's set-up the way the likes of new boys Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka and Ibrahimovic have set the terraces alight in the Spanish La Liga, but in his small own way, Getafe CF's Derek Boateng is surely one of the most exciting players to have joined the array of stars who made the switch to the Spanish La Liga this year. In an exclusive interview with 90 MINUTES newspaper, the smooth talking Derek is hopeful of carving a niche for himself with the “Azulones” and says the sky would be the limit as he settles into his new surroundings. “It had always been a dream of mine to play in the Spanish La Liga because technically, their style of play suits me fine. It was a good move away from the German Bundesliga which I knew little about with their physical style of play and all that,” Derek explained the reason behind spending only six months with Bundesliga outfit, FC Cologne.

I know I can be an instant hit in Spain looking at the kind of motivation and commitment of my new team-mates.”Â

Derek admits the Spanish league's ability to attract players like Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo also in a way influenced his decision to move Spain and considers it arguably the best league in the world. “Their move to Spain in a way influenced my decision one way or the other because these guys are extremely good and to play in the same league and rub shoulders with them is something one can only dream of. It clearly underlines the level that you are playing at.” The former Liberty Professionals ace is however hopeful of retaining a permanent position in the Black Stars after he was given a late call-up to replace Prince Tagoe in Ghana's World Cup qualifier against Sudan. He added: “I have a new club in one of the best leagues in the world and very much aware of my chances with the Black Stars should I hold a permanent position in Getafe. I'll leave no stone unturned to remain in the team because it's always a huge honour to play for one's country,” he added.