Andy Reid was officially unveiled by Tottenham Hotspur yesterday and the 22-year-old Dubliner suggested the London club's style of play had always meant White Hart Lane rather than the St Mary's Stadium would be his destination when the bidding for his services finally got serious over the weekend.
"Everyone knew that I had set my heart on coming to Spurs," he said. "This is where I wanted to go. They have showed interest in me for so long, which is very flattering. It is such a big club and I like the way they play football. There was no point in me going to a team who just lumped it all the time."
The Republic of Ireland international had been frustrated by the way talk of the move had rumbled on for months and was worried he might have to play on in the first division until the end of the season.
"I'm delighted it is finally all done and dusted. It has really dragged and it was starting to get to me but I made my position clear from the start. I wanted to play in the Premiership and that was that.
"I was worried it would drag on until the summer and while there was always a chance that would happen I was confident something would be done. In the end it was really last-minute stuff. When I woke up (on Monday) and a fee hadn't been agreed I thought I may have to start looking at other options."
Spurs head coach Martin Jol was clearly pleased he had finally landed a player who can bring much needed width to his team's attack.
"It seemed to be the longest running transfer talk in the history of football!" he laughed. "But we've got him here now and I think he will be a big asset because maybe we lack a bit of sparkle on the flanks. I think Andy will bring us good things with his dribbling, passing - he can change play as well - and I am very pleased to have him.
"He can play in-field as well, and we have more options now. We will be more creative and that is what I want - against Bolton we worked hard and the midfield did well, but you need someone who can hold the ball and run with it, giving other players the opportunity to support. I know the supporters will help him and welcome him. I hope he will not need much time to settle in our team."
Meanwhile, Shamrock Rovers have confirmed they will play their home games at Dalymount Park next season. The club had been negotiating with Bohemians for several weeks and an agreement was reached on Wednesday evening.
The clubs will play on alternate Friday evenings, kicking off at 7.45 p.m. Rovers may, however, move their "home" games against their landlords to Tolka Park.
The Setanta Cup match between Cork City and Shelbourne scheduled for Turner's Cross on Tuesday, March 29th, has been brought forward 24 hours because of the friendly international with China.
