LONDON - West Ham turned down a bid by Premier League rival Tottenham for England midfielder Scott Parker on Wednesday.

The Hammers said that they will not sell the 29-year-old Parker to its London rival or any other club regardless of the size of the bid.

Parker has three years remaining on a five-year contract with West Ham. The club has responded to Tottenham's unwelcome interest by starting negotiations over a new five-year contract.

"I made a promise that I would not sell Scott and I will not, for any amount of money, break that promise to the West Ham supporters," West Ham chairman David Sullivan said. "Scott is not for sale at any price, to anyone.

"West Ham supporters, for far too long, have had owners that sell their best players and promise one thing and do another."

Parker played for London clubs Charlton and Chelsea before a stint with Newcastle.

Avram Grant continued his preparations for his first season in charge of West Ham by appointing former Yugoslavia international Zeljko Petrovic as his assistant.

"I am happy that we now have the staff setup that I presented to the owners when I came," Grant said. "The aim is to take the team forward with professional, positive people and have a creative atmosphere.

"Zeljko Petrovic has a lot of experience and knowledge as a player and a coach."

Grant succeeded Gianfranco Zola, who was fired following a dismal season spent hovering above the relegation zone.

His coaching team also includes Paul Groves, Kevin Keen, goalkeeping coach David Coles and fitness coach Eamon Swift.