Seedorf keen to make a mark

Clarence Seedorf wants to act as a role model at new club Botafogo and help them in their charge for the Brazilian Serie A title.

After completing a protracted transfer from AC Milan, the 36-year-old was officially presented to the fans of the Rio de Janeiro club before their 3-0 win over Bahia on Saturday, and he said his desire was to help improve the team.

“I am just one of 11 players. I’m not alone. I want to be an example for them and I am convinced that I can add extra value to the team,” Seedorf told Dutch publication NuSport.

“I want to be competitive at the highest level. I hope I can contribute to the dream they have here at Botafogo to be national champions for the first time since 1995.

“It will not be easy. We will need a little luck and will have to work hard.”

Huge numbers turned out at Rio’s Galeao airport to welcome Seedorf to Brazil, and he revealed his delight at the gesture and his pleasure at continuing to play in a country that he has an affinity with.

“When I was 10 years old I cried when Brazil were eliminated in the 1986 World Cup,” he said.

“This is a very nice moment in my career – to play in a country where so many great players come from.

“They told me the fans would be there (at the airport) when I arrived on Friday. But it was a surprise. A very nice welcome.”