West Ham have completed the signing of midfielder Gary O’Neil from Championship side Middlesbrough.
The 27-year-old has put pen-to-paper on a two-and-a-half year deal with the rock-bottom Hammers after the two clubs agreed an undisclosed fee, thought to be £1.2m.
O’Neil told West Ham’s official website: “I am really pleased to sign.
“It all happened very quickly. I played for Middlesbrough at the weekend and didn't know anything was going to happen. It has all gathered pace since then.
“There was also a big rush to do it quickly when they realised I wasn't cup-tied (meaning he could make his debut in Wednesday night’s Carling Cup semi-final second leg against Birmingham City).
“I enjoyed my time at Middlesbrough, the fans and staff were really good but it has been a difficult time on the pitch.
“It is nice to be back in the Premier League and play at the top level, which everyone wants to do. I am London born so it is good to come home.
“It is great that the club have such a massive game to look forward to. I haven't trained yet with the team so it is up to the manager of course if he wants to use me.
“I will take it one step at a time but it is a big game and it could be a case of straight in at the deep end if involved.”
You can watch Birmingham City v West United live at bet365 on Wednesday night.