AS.com

Rayo Vallecano forward Leo Baptistao has provided a very positive analysis of his first season in the Spanish top flight, and has said he will never forget his first game at the club's stadium, a 0-0 draw with Sevilla at the Estadio de Vallecas, nor the first time he scored there, during a 3-2 win over Celta Vigo.

"My first game in Vallecas was incredible - feeling the support of the fans, how they get behind the team, it was very rewarding to make my debut there," the Brazilian told Rayo Vallecano TV.

"But it was even better after scoring and winning a match for the first time. The ovation I received when I was substituted was incredible."

Leo declared he is enjoying "the best year" of his career so far, and pledged to keep working so he can improve even more.

"I'm very happy with what I've done and I think I can keep this level of performance up next year. In 2013 I will be at my best and I hope for the best for me and for Rayo," he added.

"My life has changed a lot, I'm very happy about that and I'm excited about the prospect of it changing even more, so I'm only thinking about working to make 2013 a great year for me and for Rayo."

He also expressed his gratitude for those that have helped make the transition from playing for Rayo B last season to the first team in 2012-13.

"The friends that I have made at the club help carry me and I want to stay here, what struck me the most is how well I have been treated. Everyone's given me a lot of confidence and I owe it all to my team-mates and to the club."