JOE Devera had no hesitation signing for Swindon as soon as the Robins made their interest known, despite being linked with a host of Championship clubs.

The defender arrived at the County Ground last week determined to play a part in a promotion battle, having spent all of last season fighting against relegation with Barnet.

Devera was recognised for his committed displays in a Bees shirt during the last campaign by being named the club's player of the year.

But, eager for a new challenge, Devera was determined to move on when his contract expired this summer and the likes of Reading, Millwall and Crystal Palace were all monitoring the 24-year-old's situation.

But once Swindon approached him, Devera knew straight away where he wanted to go.

When asked by the Advertiser if there were other clubs battling with Swindon for his signature, Devera said: “There was a lot of speculation and a lot of rumours, but nothing solid.

“My plan was to wait and see what happened. I didn't want to wait around too long, though, in case something did not come along, but when Swindon came in for me it was a no-brainer really.”

Another draw for Devera was the chance to work with Town boss Paolo Di Canio.

The Italian is arguably the most high profile manager in League Two and Devera has already bought into his passion and will to win.

“Paolo is going to attract a lot of attention and he has a lot of passion,” he added. “He seems to want to win and I want to win trophies and gain promotion, so that was an attraction.

“He is ready to go and clearly cannot wait to get started.”

Devera has already declared his intent to claim one of the centre-back positions and has explained what type of player fans can expect to see when he takes to the pitch in a Town shirt for the first time.

“My pace is probably my strongest attribute I feel,” he said.

“I also like to play the ball on the floor but I know that in this league you cannot always do that and in certain games and you to hit balls up to the strikers and let them deal with it.”