Joaquin insists he was always confident of establishing himself at Valencia.

The former Real Betis winger has been in superb form in preseason and said: "I'm delighted with what is happening in preseason. It has been phenomenal for me.

"My football hasn't changed, but I have now adjusted to the team's play - which is what Quique [Sanchez Flores] wanted.

"Everything I'm trying for is coming off. I think when my teammates see how I'm playing it also lifts them."