Young midfielder Michael Carrick has moved across London from West Ham United to Spurs.

The 23-year-old was unveiled by his new employersat a press conference today and spoke of his delight with the move.

He said: “It’s a team moving forwards, it’s a new regime and a new manager.
“The new players who have been brought in are of high quality.

“When you add that to what was already in the squad, then I think things are looking up for Tottenham.”

He added: “Hopefully, I can improve the squad and take this club forward. There are a lot of young lads and there is a nice blend.

“It might take a few games to settle down but things are looking up.”

The new recruit, who is thought to have cost Spurs £3.5m, also admitted that Arsenal and Portsmouth had been interested in his services.

And although Carrick acknowledges he nearly went to Fratton Park to be reunited with former West Ham boss Harry Redknapp, he insists that he is overjoyed with his move to White Hart Lane.

He continued: “Two weeks ago I was close to going elsewhere but then the Arsenal thing came up.

“This is the way it has worked out, with me coming to Tottenham and I am delighted with the outcome.

“Before the Arsenal thing it was quite close to be honest. The Arsenal thing disturbed that a little bit.

“It had to be right for everyone. West Ham, Tottenham and myself.

“When I knew Tottenham was involved then there was only club where I wanted to come.”

Carrick goes immediately into the squad that faces West Bromwich Albion at home tomorrow.