Brighton & Hove Albion manager Gus Poyet has announced that Spanish winger Vicente will begin pre-season training next week after an extended leave of absence.

Family reasons have kept the former Valencia player from joining up with his teammates, but Poyet has confirmed that he will play for the club next season.

Speaking to the club's official website, Poyet said: "I'm absolutely delighted to say that Vicente will be with us next season and to know he will be part of the squad is fantastic news for the club and our supporters.

"Too much has been made of the situation but Vicente's had some personal issues to resolve before being able to return to England; nothing to do with football or financial issues.

"These issues have been resolved now and everyone is happy."

Vicente recently signed a new 12-month contract at Brighton.