SHAKERS fans won't have to wait too long to see Indian superstar Baichung Bhutia in action - he's straight into the first team squad for tomorrow's Gigg Lane clash against Cardiff.

Bury boss Neil Warnock welcomed Bhutia to Gigg Lane yesterday and declared that the club's most high-profile signing will be involved in first team affairs immediately.

Gigg Lane hadn't seen a day like it as TV cameras and journalists from national and international organisations gathered in the Starkies Suite to get their first glimpse of the 'Star of Asia'.

And what they discovered is that the long-awaited signing can't wait to put the skills and eye for a goal that has made him a household name in his own country to good use in front of the Bury faithful.

"I'm just going to work hard and give my best for the club," he said.

"When I came on trial I was really impressed with the set-up at Bury as well as the players and coaching staff.

"I know I have things to learn about the English game and I will try to improve all facets of my game but I am determined to succeed."

Bhutia already has some experience of European soccer after touring Belarus with the Indian Under-21 side and has played against Russian touring teams as well.

And he admitted he was glad the protracted problems with his work permit were eventually sorted out to his, and Bury FC's, satisfaction.

"It was a difficult time and was all new to me but I just kept focusing on my game.

"I think I am the first Indian player to come to Europe but I don't think I'll be the last. Hopefully it will give other players from the subcontinent the confidence to come to Europe."

Warnock was understandably delighted to finally get his man but was keen to play down the hype that has surrounded the 22-year-old in recent weeks.

"I don't think we should expect too much from Baichung straight away," declared Warnock. "He is just another member of our squad and as far as I am concerned the only reason he is here is because he was better than a lot of former Premier Division youngsters we had a look at in pre-season.

"He really unsettles defenders, has a good turn of speed and although he's not a big lad he is strong and I don't think any defenders will fancy playing against him.

"He has a lot to learn about the physical aspects of the Second Division but he is a gurkha and he'll need that strength of character this season."

Chairman Terry Robinson was quick to dispel any suggestions that the decision to sign Bhutia was anything other than a footballing one.

"As far as the club is concerned we signed Baichung for his ability as a player and our view is that he would be an acquisition for the club," he said.

"One of the spin-offs from the signing will obviously be the fact that he will be a role model for young Asians if he is successful.

"It would be dangerous to put to much emphasis on Baichung's origins because at a football club it is ability that counts it's like the PFA's campaign said a few months ago it's the colour of the shirt that matters."

As for tomorrow's game, Warnock looks like relying on the same starting eleven that got a draw at Bournemouth and although Andy Preece (hip) and Ian Lawson (ankle) haven't trained all week both are expected to be fit.

The Bluebirds went down 2-1 to Brentford in midweek but Warnock expects a tough game.

"Kevin Blackwell saw them on Tuesday and they were unlucky to lose and had a lot of possession and created a few scoring opportunities," he said.

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