Rafael Van der Vaart insists he was not a failure at Real Madrid and has vowed to become a major star for Tottenham in the Champions League.

Van der Vaart finally completed his £8million move to the north London club on Wednesday after the Premier League gave them the green light to confirm the signing.

Technical difficulties had prevented Tottenham getting the deal put through before the 6pm deadline on Tuesday, but the Premier League ratified the deal.

Van der Vaart, 27, had fallen down the pecking order at the Bernabeu following the arrival of Kaka, Mesut Ozil and Sergio Canales.

But the Dutch international is convinced he can regain his best form at Tottenham and admits the prospect of playing in the Champions League was one of the major factors in him agreeing to play at White Hart Lane.

Van der Vaart said: "I have not been a failure at Real Madrid. I have always given my best over the last few years for both club and country.

"Now I have arrived at Tottenham and I want to show my quality. A number of clubs have been interested in me, but I always wanted to consider the best option at the last moment. When I saw that I would not be playing, I knew I  had to leave.

"The Premier League is one of the best leagues in the world. I can only say if I have been worth the money at the end of the season.

"I don't think I am going to have any problems adapting in England to the style of play and the country I am living in.

"The fact that Tottenham were playing in the Champions League influenced my decision a great deal. I have to earn my place in the team.

"Tottenham have a number of sensational players and I know it is not going to be easy, but that is the challenge I am looking forward to."