West Ham United striker Modibo Maiga admits he came close to joining St Etienne in the summer.

Maiga scored only two Premier League goals last season following his £4.7million switch from Sochaux - and nearly joined St Etienne in the summer.

"It was almost done," he said. "I wasn't happy. If a player doesn't play, and if you want to progress, you have to leave.

"The most ­important thing was to rediscover the pleasure of playing again. The supporters have backed me very well. When I hear them sing my name, it is a great feeling. It gives me determination to work harder."