Reo-Coker pleased with move

New West Ham signing Nigel Reo-Coker says he joined the club because he believes they can achieve promotion this season.

The midfielder inked a deal with The Hammers late on Wednesday evening after they agreed a fee with Wimbledon's administrators, disappointing a host of clubs such as Leicester, Portsmouth, Tottenham, Crystal Palace and Cardiff.

The England Under-21 star says he is confident the East London club can make it back to The Premiership and feels manager Alan Pardew was a huge factor in him spurning the overtures of fellow clubs.

"I am delighted to have signed and really looking forward to the chance of playing," he told West Ham's official website.

"It is a big club and there is the opportunity to do well - and get back in The Premiership.

"He (Pardew) was definitely a big influence in my decision; I had heard about him, I asked about him, and I know a few players that have played under him."

The highly-rated star added he is pleased to be swapping the threat of relegation for the prospect of promotion and is keen to link up with his new team-mates.

"I believe that West Ham can definitely get back into The Premiership first time, there are no doubts about it," he added.

"I am looking forward to working with the great midfielders such as Michael Carrick and Hayden Mullins here.

"There are so many good players, some of whom I know already such as David Connolly and Jermain Defoe, who I have played with.

"If I can supply a few for Jermain Defoe then hopefully we will be laughing!"

Fellow Don Adam Nowland has also agreed terms to follow Reo-Coker to Upton Park.