Parker signs new deal at West Ham

Parker is aiming to help kick start West Ham's season

West Ham midfielder Scott Parker has signed a new long-term contract with the club that will keep him at Upton Park until 2014.

Tottenham bid for Parker in July, but West Ham owner David Sullivan turned down the offer and said the 29-year-old was not for sale "at any price".

And despite their precarious financial position, the Hammers have managed to secure Parker's services.

"I always knew this was where I was going to be," said Parker.

"I really wanted to stay here, give it a shot and see what can happen. I just want to do my best for West Ham and cannot wait to play against Chelsea on Saturday."

The former Charlton, Chelsea and Newcastle midfielder admitted that there had been a lot of speculation over the summer but hinted that he was boosted by the owners' determination to keep him.

Parker was, in fact, the only West Ham player not to be up for sale as the club desperately tried to raise funds to tackle their debts, which were reported to be £110m when Sullivan and David Gold took over in January.

606: DEBATE Now that's loyalty right there, SUPER SUPER SCOTT Hines_means_A_goal

And the England international, who was part of the provisional squad for the World Cup before being overlooked by Fabio Capello, is eager to repay the faith shown in him by the owners and by the club's fans.

"With the transfer window there is always a lot of hype. The owners spoke out last season and I am more than happy," he added on West Ham's website.

"And the fans mean a lot to me. The most important thing is feeling welcome and appreciated by the fans - and that is the one thing I do feel."

Parker is also keen to help turn around the Hammers' season after three league defeats so far that have left them bottom of the table.

They could hardly have a more difficult tasks than facing defending champions Chelsea at Upton Park on Saturday, but Parker remains optimistic.

"There is no hiding the fact that we need to try to pick up some points," he said. "But I am sure that it won't be long before we start clicking and you see the best of us.

"We got a great result against Chelsea at home last year and played really well. We drew 1-1 and their goal probably wasn't even a penalty.

"We go into the game with great hope and if the fans get behind us and we put in a great performance, you never know."

Parker has made 85 appearances for West Ham since joining from Newcastle, and endeared himself to supporters with a 30-yard strike against Wigan last season which helped guarantee the club's Premier League status.

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