Jermain Defoe feels it's the right time to leave Tottenham as he prepares to be presented as Toronto FC's new designated player this week.
Defoe admits it will be a wrench to leave Tottenham after such a long time at the club but is looking forward to a new challenge.
"I was there nine years so you can imagine what it's like. I think everyone knows how I feel about Tottenham," he told Sky Sports News.
"I have had a special relationship with the fans over the years but it's football and players move on.
"At the age of 31 it is a great opportunity for me and my family."
Defoe has suffered a series of personal traumas in recent years and he revealed they, along with the financial security the move to Toronto would bring, helped persuade him to make the move.
"I've been through some things with my family over the last few years and sometimes it is nice to have a change," he added.
"I only had a year left on my contract at Tottenham. If you have a year left and someone comes in and offers you four, you have to think about it and consider your options. It's as simple as that."
As for the World Cup, he added: "Hopefully the manager knows what I can do. I am 31 and I have played in the Premiership my whole career.
"There's not much more I need to prove but it's down to the manager, he picks the squad.
"If I get picked to play for my country, I will be ready."
