West Ham United's new signing Angelo Ogbonna admits it was always his dream to play in the Premier League and reveals how Slaven Bilic played a big role in persuading him to join the east London Club.
Ogbonna, 27, signed a four-year deal from Italian giants Juventus on Friday and is hoping to become an even better player in England.
The Italy international has a wealth of experience and cannot wait to make his first-team debut.
Ogbonna says he has always been a big fan of Bilic and the way he manages his teams and hopes to be part of a special season for West Ham United.
Ogbonna said: “I am very pleased to have joined West Ham United.
“I spoke with the coach and he has given me the opportunity to play in the Premier League. That was always my dream and now I am very happy to be doing this.
“I knew about Slaven and that he is a good manager. Before he joined West Ham he was coach of Croatia and I know what he can do for his team. I saw his team in action and know that he plays attacking football. He has a great attitude and wants to win.
“The West Ham fans can expect to me see my professionalism and my tradition. I want to do my best and I want to be better than last season.”
Ogbonna knew all about West Ham United before his arrival in England and the impact that his fellow Italian compatriot Paolo Di Canio had at the Boleyn Ground.
Ogbonna added: “I knew West Ham United from watching the Premier League in Italy. West Ham are very famous in Italy because Paolo Di Canio played for them and I know the famous number six shirt. I know how great the fans are and I like this kind of support.
“I look forward to coming to London. I want to play at West Ham for a number of seasons and to improve my English.”
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