CZECH Republic international Radoslav Kovac has admitted that manager Gianfranco Zola's presence at West Ham played a big part in persuading him to join the club.

Kovac has joined the Hammers on loan until the end season from Spartak Moscow but revealed there were other offers on the table when he decided to link up with Zola's side.

"There was interest from other big clubs but when West Ham showed their interest, it felt like the right move for me and a chance to come and play in the Premier League," he told the club's official website, www.whufc.co.uk.

"Of course I know a lot about the manager and also the player he was. He says it is a fantastic opportunity for me to come and play under him and I am very excited about this.

"I am delighted to be here. West Ham is a beautiful club and I am happy that I have signed and can't wait to play."