John Arne Riise has claimed that the signing of Dimitar Berbatov proves that Fulham are progressing as a club.

The Cottagers beat a number of teams to Berbatov's signature this summer and Riise believes that the deal was a signal of intent.

"For Fulham to have a player like him at the club is amazing," he told the club's official website. "It just proves that we're working hard to push the club forward."

Berbatov's impact was clear on Saturday as the Bulgarian scored two goals on his home debut against West Bromwich Albion, a performance that Riise was quick to praise.

"He came in and scored two goals on his home debut and you can't ask for more than that. He's settling in well and all the boys are pleased to have him in the team," the Norweigan defender added.

Fulham are currently ninth in the Premier League.