New LA Galaxy signing Nigel de Jong has said his love of American sports culture persuaded him to join the club.
The Dutchman, who supported American football team the Pittsburgh Steelers from an early age, moved to Los Angeles after being released by AC Milan last month.
De Jong told the Galaxy's official website that he had jumped at the chance to move to the U.S. after finding himself on the San Siro sidelines.
And the 31-year-old defensive midfielder added: "It was the first time in my career that it happened to me. I've always been a regular and a starter throughout my career.
"My next step has always been America."
See what all @NDJ_Official had to say today: https://t.co/izIw70sEt6 pic.twitter.com/5QkBtbOlJy
- LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) February 17, 2016
"It was between the coach and me. I couldn't do anything than just waiting for my moment. Now I'm here, and I'm happy to get a chance overseas in a country that I really prefer.
"I think it helped a lot that I'm still a fan of the sport culture. Since I was young, I always watched the different sports and enjoyed the way that America embraces sports are way different than Europe. I liked that.
"Not only soccer, but there are also so many sports out here. It's why the culture is so big. I always wanted to experience that."
De Jong, who made his international debut for Netherlands in 2004, has also played for Ajax, Hamburg and Manchester City.