Luka Modric today admitted his surprise at joining Tottenham but hopes to repay them by getting the club into the Champions League.

Modric joined from Dinamo Zagreb for £15.8million, which could reach £20.5m, after Spurs outbid Newcastle for the 22-year-old.

The Croatia midfielder is convinced he will soon be playing in Europe's premier club competition.

Modric, at White Hart Lane for the 1-1 draw with Bolton, said: "I am very happy Juande Ramos wanted me. It is most important the coach wants you as a player.

"It was not a difficult decision. The president of Dinamo Zagreb called me [Friday night] to tell me he had agreed a deal with Tottenham that was perfect for me. At first I was very surprised, then a few seconds later I was proud over the prospect of coming to England.

"It is right that many clubs in England were interested in taking me, but my favourite from the first meeting was Tottenham because I am a big fan of Ramos. I want to achieve big things with the club."