As he stood in the innards if the East Stand for a photo shooting on Thursday morning, Jelle van Damme uttered his first words of German: "Viele schöne momente (many happy moments)", announced Werders new signing with a cheeky grin. The Belgian is hoping to experience many happy moments with Werder and his first was his presentation in Bremen as a new signing.

At 12:38pm, the 21 year old celebrated his return to the football stage by lofting his new number '23' shirt into the air alongside his new coach Thomas Schaaf. The 1,91m left fullback began his career in electrifying fashion at the Ajax Amsterdam talent school from 2001 until 2004 where he experienced his first taste of success: "I had a great time right at the beginning, played 30 or 40 games including 10 or 11 Champions League appearances", recollected the young snooker fan who was part of the Ajax championship winning team in 2004.

It was then that the injuries took their toll. "On one occasion I restarted much too early and I learned my lesson", explained van Damme, the reason for his long break through injury - an ankle problem which cost him most of the last season. "I was aware that I would really have to allow my ankle to heal, I'm just 22 and I intend to play football professionally for another 12 or 15 years. Now all has been cleared and I'm looking forward to the start of training."

Jelle van Damme is relieved to have found a club in Werder Bremen where he can achieve his lofty goals. "I'm very thankful to Werder for offering me this chance. Here they are just as greedy for success as I am and they want to play real football. Something I know from Ajax", said the Belgian who is excited about the prospect of the Bundesliga. "It was a big change for me in football terms to go to Southhampton, as it became clear that we'd be relegated to the second division I knew I could stay no longer - it wasn't even football, just 'Kick and Rush'.

In Bremen he has taken over the number '23' previously the property of Ludovic Magnin. "He's a flexible player on the left but wide on the wing at his best", commented coach Thomas Schaaf who is hoping for a battle for a first team place between van Damme and Christian Schulz. The Belgian brings with his the ability to take over an important roll in the side. "He's a robust player who can also fit in well with our combination play. He has what it takes to create pressure down the flanks and to switch quickly from defence to attack. We're hoping too that he'll be willing to take a shot a goal as he possesses a thumping drive."

Jelle van Damme can beging to prove his worth from Monday and his return to the big league could occur very quickly. "Werder is of most importance. If I can break through here, I can make it back into the national side. I phoned the trainer this morning and he was very happy about my move to Bremen", the seven times capped international told us. If he plays his cards right, Jelle van Damme will have the chance to experience 'Many happy moments' with his Werder colleagues at the East Stand.