Brazilian midfielder Edu has revealed he turned down offers from several Premier League clubs in order to prove himself at Valencia.

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The former Arsenal player joined Los Che from the Gunners in 2005, but knee ligament injuries blighted his first two years at the club, limiting him to just 15 appearances in that time.

After returning to fitness at the start of last season, the 30-year-old found himself sidelined by then new manager Ronald Koeman.

The Sao Paulo-born playmaker is now fit and taking part in pre-season training, and has shunned a return to England in a bid to finally establish himself in La Liga.

Edu said: "I received some offers over the summer, above all from England, because people knew I had recovered, but I want to stay with Valencia and to have a good season and be a success here.

"I do not want to think about anything other than Valencia. I took care of myself during the holiday and I am looking forward to what will be a very important season for me.

"Over the summer I followed the training schedule I was given and that has allowed me to come back already at a good level.

"This year really is vital for me. The previous three have been full of problems, mainly because of injuries. I came here to enjoy myself and I know expectations were high after I came from Arsenal, now I just hope I can stay clear of injuries."