Toby Alderweireld says the appointment of Jose Mourinho influenced his decision to extend his Tottenham contract.
The Belgium international was due to become a free agent next summer, but he ended the speculation over his future by penning fresh terms last week.
The centre-back has committed to Spurs until 2023 and insists he never considered making a move elsewhere.
“I understand the questions were there but I never thought about leaving," he told the Evening Standard.
“I don't like to talk about myself but the only thing I can say about myself is that every game I do everything on the pitch that I can. Everything. I think that's why maybe we have a good connection, the fans and me.
“I'm very happy and it was always in my mind to stay. It's easy to talk now like this after I signed a deal but hand on my heart it's true.
“Of course [Mourinho] is an influence but in a decision like this there's a lot of things to consider. You talk with your family, of course my wife. I'm 30, you think, 'Do I want something else?'
“The more I was thinking, 'What am I going to do?' the more my decision went towards Spurs. At the end, it was not a difficult decision.
“The connection with the fans was a big factor, big factor. From day one, it's a cliche but I felt at home, I felt good.
“I think they appreciate what I've done for the club and I just want to pay them back with loyalty and with good performances in the next couple of seasons.
"There's a lot of things: family, how I feel about the club, the fans, how I am with the manager.
“Of course, there's a financial part as well, so it's all small parts that make your decision. I know I can get maybe a different deal somewhere else but I chose loyalty, Spurs and football.”
Tottenham will be looking to bounce back from Sunday's defeat by Chelsea when they host Brighton on Boxing Day.
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