West ham have today confirmed the signing of Thomas ‘der hammer’ Hitzlsperger on a three year deal. The former Aston Villa man has become Avram Grant’s first signing as manager and returns to the Premier League after spells with Stuttgart and Lazio. During his time at Stuttgart he played an important role in their 06/07 season, contributing seven goals as the side won the Bundesliga and he was later made team captain. The midfielder joined Lazio during the January transfer window to bolster his prospects of making Germany’s World Cup squad but narrowly missed out. He is known for having a powerful left shot from range.

A statement on the club website has claimed that the arrival of an experienced international player with over 60 caps for his national side is close to signing. After checking the ever reliable Wikipedia Hitzlsperger misses this mark by nine caps. So perhaps another new recruit is imminent. Yossi maybe?