Scott Parker has pledged his future to West Ham by signing a new four-year deal, with an option for a further 12 months.
The 29-year-old midfielder, who won the club’s player of the year award last season, was linked with both Tottenham and Liverpool throughout the summer months.
But, after putting pen-to-paper on his new contract, Parker revealed he never had any intention of leaving Upton Park.
He told the club’s official website: “With the transfer window there is all this big hype.
“There are obviously times when it is stressful but from the outset I always knew this was where I was going to be. The owners came out and spoke last season and I am more than happy.”
And Parker paid tribute to the Hammers’ fans, and claimed they were a major part of his decision agree a new long-term deal which could see him finish his career at Upton Park.
He continued: “The fans mean a lot to me. I came here (in July 2007) and didn’t start the best with an injury. Since then I have been in the team and the fans have taken to me very well.
“I think if you asked any player, the most important thing is feeling welcome and being appreciated by the fans. I must say that for me personally as a player that is the one thing I do feel. I feel appreciated.
“The fans show that every Saturday when they turn up home and away. That had a massive factor in me deciding to stay and obviously sign a new contract.”