Saints' Davis turns down Hammers

Southampton goalkeeper Kelvin Davis has rejected the chance to move to West Ham and has instead signed a new three-year deal with the club.

The 32-year-old, who had been training with the Hammers, was persuaded to stay after Swiss businessman Markus Liebherr completed his takeover on Wednesday.

"I had a decision to make and am delighted to be able to stay," Davis told the club's website.

"I always said that League One football doesn't scare me."

West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola wanted Davis as understudy to England international Robert Green, but he has instead opted for first-team football at St Mary's, despite the Saints starting next season with a 10-point penalty.

606: DEBATE

" The curse is broken! Finally a season in which player of the season from the year before DIDN'T leave (or retire)! "

"The decision for me was between the opportunity of first-team football at Southampton or the chance to play Premier League football," said Davis.

"I have made my choice to stay at Southampton.

"After speaking to Gianfranco Zola and (goalkeeping coach) Ludek Miklosko at West Ham, they were both very understanding of my position and I hold them both with the utmost respect."

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