Sebastien Bassong has explained why he's quit Newcastle United for Tottenham.

Bassong insists he had to quit Newcastle for the sake of his international future after TRIPLING his wages to a modest £30,000-a- week by joining Spurs, says The Sun.

The Cameroon defender, 23, last night signed for £8million - a £7m profit for cash-strapped Toon.

Boss Harry Redknapp beat off Manchester City and Aston Villa to land Bassong, who was at Tottenham's training ground for a medical yesterday.

Bassong enjoyed a standout season at St James' Park but insists he had to leave to further his career after Toon's relegation.

He said: "I want to play in the Premier League and that's not possible with Newcastle.

"It just wasn't good for my career to be with a Championship club. I want to play in future World Cups and African Cup of Nations competitions."