The former Czech Republic international began his career with Sparta as a youngster, before signing his first professional contract with city rivals Slavia in 1991.

He has spent the last 12 years in England, taking in spells at Liverpool, Portsmouth, Villa and Stoke City.

He was released from his contract at Villa at the end of the 2007/08 season, and despite offers to remain in the Barclays Premier League, has decided to return to this homeland.

"I wanted to come back at some point anyway and so I decided the time was right now," he said.

Berger admits he was tempted to join up with former Liverpool team-mate, and long-time friend, Vladimir Smicer at Slavia, but was impressed by Sparta's determination to push a deal through. "I did not receive an offer from Slavia and we came to terms with Sparta very quickly," he said.

"I think I have made the right decision. And Smicer? He told me he was looking forward to playing against me. He took it as a sportsman."