FERNANDO Hierro is breaking new ground at the Reebok.

Having been limited to three substitute appearances this season, the legendary former Real Madrid captain is itching to get into the starting line-up.

But he accepts that, with Wanderers playing as well as they are, he will have to bide his time. The fact that Sam Allardyce sees the 36-year-old Spaniard as a versatile squad member -- he can play in midfield as well as at centre-back -- gives him options, but if Bruno N'Gotty and Radhi Jaidi continue to play so well together, Hierro could be kicking his heels for a while.

Nevertheless, he is enjoying life in England and is confident that, once fully match fit, he will break into the first team.

"I am satisfied with what I am doing and how I am living," Hierro said. "It has only been a month, and you have to realise also that I arrived a month later than the rest of my team-mates, who benefited from pre-season training.

"This is a squad that has been together for three or four years, and I have to be patient. The important thing is that I am prepared for the challenge."

READY: Fernando Hierro