Candela opts for Udinese

Vincent Candela has signed for Udinese after shunning the chance to stay at Bolton Wanderers.

The experienced full back had joined Bolton in January from Roma and had been on a contract until the end of the season.

Trotters boss Sam Allardyce had been hoping to hang on to Candela as the club prepare for their debut campaign in the Uefa Cup.

But, with Udinese set to make their bow in the UEFA Champions League, Candela has jumped at the opportunity to play in Europe's elite competition.

Candela has spent the past week mulling over the offers from Bolton and Udinese but acknowledged the lure of the Champions League swayed his mind.

He also voiced his desire for Udinese to retain the services of David Pizarro, with the Chilean midfielder coveted by a string of Serie A's bigger clubs.

"You will see that I will not be a disappointment," Candela told the media at his unveiling.

"The chance to play in the Champions League gives me a lot of joy.

"Udinese are a big club and it would appeal to me if Pizarro stays as he is a real champion."