NEW Clarets signing Christian Kalvenes insisted the desire to play in England finally convinced him to shelve a return to his native Norway.

The former Dundee United defender this week agreed a two-year deal after Burnley boss Owen Coyle persuaded him to join his Turf Moor revolution.

And after shelving immediate plans to raise a family back in Scandinavia, the 31-year-old left back insists he is finally ready to fulfil his dream of playing in English football.

He said: "I was all set to go home this summer and the only thing that would steer us away from that was a really good offer.

"Burnley came in and that really changed my mind. I have never played football in England so it's something to really look forward to, especially the challenge of playing in the Championship.

"Owen (Coyle) showed great determination to sign me and that always makes a player feel wanted.

"I think I have signed for a very good, passionate manager at a club that is looking to make a strong challenge this year."

Kalvenes, who was last year voted best left back in Scotland, added: "I spoke to Erik Bakke, a good friend of mine, and he reinforced what I already knew - that the Championship is a really hard, tough league.

"But that is something to look forward to, not be frightened of. I am confident in my own ability and ready for this new challenge."

Kalvenes, who began his career with Brann Bergen in Norway and initially joined Dundee United at the start of the 2006/07 campaign, admitted his time in Scotland was the highlight of his career.

Kalvenes in action v Rangers north of the border

But after being persuaded of Burnley's ambition by Coyle, he admits he is now relishing the next chapter on a long journey.

He said: "I think Dundee was a fantastic move for me and I enjoyed the best time in my career there.

"I cannot speak highly enough about the club or the people. I loved the passion the fans had and I relished every moment.

"I have to say that before Owen called I'm afraid didn't know much about Burnley Football Club, but I have been busy swotting up on the Internet and I know it is a club with a very proud tradition with great importance.

"Now I am really looking forward to coming down to the stadium next week and meeting the staff and the players and getting down to work."