West Ham have completed the signing of England midfielder Stewart Downing from Liverpool for a fee of around £ 6 million. He becomes the second major English arrival at the club following the signing of Andy Carroll a few weeks ago. Carroll was also signed from Liverpool, but he cost around £ 15 million.
Downing will be expected to supply the ammunition for Carroll, who thrives on crosses. Downing has endured a difficult time in football since his £ 20 million move to Liverpool from Aston Villa a few seasons ago.
He has been criticised as one of the worst signings made by Liverpool in recent times. It looked straight away obvious during pre-season that he was not going to be a part of manager Brendan Rodgers’ plans. He has been constantly linked with a move away from the club in the last few months. The 29-year-old will be signing for West Ham for around £ 6 million, which will mean a huge hit for Liverpool. The player has said that he is extremely excited about the move. He is hoping that he will be fit for the first match of the season against Cardiff during the weekend.
Downing has made 34 appearances for the England national team.
“I’m very excited. It’s a great opportunity for me being here, it’s a great club and I’m really excited to get going. I’m ready and I’m fit for the first game against Cardiff City. I’ve played a decent few games for Liverpool in pre-season, so there will be no problems on that front. It’s all happened quickly, but I’m really excited and hoping to play a part on Saturday,” said the midfielder. West Ham have now taken their summer spending beyond £ 20 million following his arrival. They will be hoping to start the new season with a victory.