Tal Ben Haim admits he jumped at the chance of heading back to England after joining Charlton on a one-year deal.

The Israel defender made Charlton his eighth club after a decade with the likes of Bolton, Chelsea, Manchester City and QPR.

Ben Haim, who has won 71 international caps, returns to the Championship after a short stint in Belgium with Standard Liege.

It is understood he shunned the advances of Maccabi Haifa to join Charlton.

He said: "I'm delighted to be back because I wanted the chance to return.

"I had offers to return to Israel but I felt it was better for me to come back to England where I've been playing since 2004.

"I know all about this league - it's a tough and competitive one and you have to work hard.

"But I hope we can have a good season at Charlton.

"I want to use my experience to help the team and for our young players progress."

Charlton kick-off their league campaign against Brentford on August 9.

Ben Haim, 32, is up for the fight in the battle to nail down a first-team spot with the south Londoners.

He said: "The main reason I am here is I want to play games.

"I've been training really hard and hope to start the season well.

"I'm still as hungry to succeed as I was when I was 18. The plan is to play a big part this season."