SALVA Ballesta had no need to voice his bitter disappointment at missing out on his Wanderers' debut on Saturday. His stern expression spoke volumes.

The Valencia striker thought his loan switch was all done and dusted on Thursday but the Spanish FA's failure to grant his international clearance in time meant he had to watch from the stands as Wanderers rattled four past Birmingham to win the Reebok relegation battle.

"We didn't expect the wait to be as long as it was to get the licence," he said. "The manager was very keen to get me over here and I'd built up my mind, looking forward to having my debut.

"I am a bit dismayed that I didn't get my debut but my time will come."

Ballesta, who cost Valencia £7.2m when he moved from Atletico Madrid three years ago, has found himself out of favour and short of games this season.

But that appears to have made him doubly-determined to get his career back on track - with a little help from the Wanderers' fans.

"I'm devoting all my energies to Bolton's objective to stay in the Premiership," he added. "There is quite a culture difference, moving from one country to another but English football is something I have always been fond of. The English fan is known all over the world for his love of his team and that gives great strength to the players.

"I hope to get into the team and do well."