The 27-year-old joined West Brom on a season-long loan deal from Dynamo Kiev on transfer deadline day.

"I know that West Bromwich wanted me two or three years ago when I was playing in Holland," he told the Birmingham Post.

"When I heard they wanted me a second time I said 'this is a good chance for me to show what I can do' - I'm so happy to sign for West Bromwich."

The former Heerenveen defender admits he is keen to make his move permanent.

"I hope after this one year I will sign for two or three more," added Popov.

"Dynamo usually finishes first or second in Ukraine and as I have a three-year contract there I know - if I go back - I'll be able to play Champions League football.

"But I will only have one chance to come to England and I want to use it because I always dreamed of it."