Former Newcastle United defender Sebastien Bassong is delighted with his move to Tottenham.

"It has been an interesting year and I learned a lot at Newcastle," said Bassong, who arrived from Metz a year ago.

"I'm really happy to have played for Newcastle but had to move to improve myself and make a step forward in my career. I'm sure Spurs will be a good thing for me. I'm very, very happy to be here at Spurs. There is a smile on my face."

Bassong revealed he heard about the move "weeks before" it was finalised, adding: "I really wanted to come to Spurs and it was just details that needed to be sorted out.

"Spurs are a famous team in Europe and the world, everyone knows the players here. The manager is famous with a good reputation, that is why I didn't hesitate to come here."

"Every player needs competition to go forward," Bassong added on Spurs TV Online. "That is what I need, without it I wouldn't feel good, so I am ready for it and it is positive for the team to go forward.

"I know there are a lot of experienced players here and hopefully I can learn from them."