Tomkins committed to West Ham

James Tomkins insisted he never had any intention of leaving West Ham after signing a new long-term contract.

The England Under-21 defender was reportedly a target for Newcastle but has instead committed himself to Upton Park until the summer of 2016.

"It is a compliment really when Premier League teams are interested in you," he said. "It means that you are doing something right, which I felt I was doing. I was just gaining confidence from that but I was always committed to West Ham and I have shown that commitment."

He added: "Everyone has been brilliant to me at the club, all the fans, the manager and the players.

We are all concentrating on getting the club back to where it belongs."

Manager Sam Allardyce was delighted one of his star performers this season had put pen to paper, saying: "It's great news, he's been really good for us and really consistent this season."