Vargas had screws removed in the off-season from his ankle which was surgically repaired early last season.

The 31-year-old, who has been working with a physio in Belgium, joined the Jets at the Pinatar Arena Football Centre in Murcia this week.

Merrick said the Venezuelan was “fit and healthy” and has earmarked the skillful play-maker for limited minutes off the bench against Cartagena on Saturday night.

“Ronny is healthy and progressing well,” Merrick said. 

“I don’t expect to use him too much. We will look to give him 15 minutes in the first game and a bit longer in the second.”

Cartagena and Murcia, who the Jets play Friday, are in the Segunda Division. 

The Jets play La Liga side Getafe on Wednesday.

“Cartagena used to be a big team and still have a strong following,” Merrick said.

“They just missed out on promotion in the play-offs and are building for the future. The quality and skill level will be very high.

“We are going to play a very open game, work on possession and getting forward. See if we can cause them some problems in the attacking third.”

The Pinitar Arena Football Centre has hosted the likes of Borussia Dortmund, Newcastle United and Lyon.

“To have a pre-season training camp in a place like this is first class,” Merrick said. 

“There are five training fields which are all immaculately groomed.”