WEST Ham manager Alan Curbishley has claimed that Bobby Zamora and John Pantsil moved to Fulham due to a lack of first-team opportunities at Upton Park.

Striker Zamora played an influential role in helping the Irons stave off relegation from the Premier League in 2006/07, but struggled for both form and fitness last term, scoring just once in 14 appearances.

Ghanaian full-back Pantsil, meanwhile, started just nine matches in two seasons after joining from Israeli side Hapoel Tel Aviv following the 2006 World Cup.

And Curbishley admitted both players would not have been first choices again this term, leading them to move to Craven Cottage for a combined £6.3million fee last week.

“I think the lure of first team football was big for both of them,” said the Hammers boss.

“I think John Pantsil was very happy at the club, but didn't play many games last year, while Bobby may have looked at Craig Bellamy coming back, I don't know.

“But I think it was a good deal for everybody really.

“Bobby has left on great terms with everybody and so has John and I wish them well.

“We all move on, so you will have to see what we do.

“People are talking about us and what we are doing, but just have a look at what we do by the time the window closes, and see where we are at.”