Lucas Neill Agrees Hammers Deal

Neill turned down a move to Liverpool to join the Hammers and many have questioned whether the player is simply motivated by the reported £60,000 per-week wages that new Chairman Eggert Magnusson has offered to the Australian.

Neill has dismissed this notion however, saying “It wasn't about cash - that didn't come into it,” Neill told Sydney's Sunday Telegraph. “It was about being wanted. West Ham were knocking down the door to get me whereas Liverpool made a take it or leave it offer and didn't even come in for me until 15 days after the transfer window opened.

“People who have raised their eyebrows at me for making this decision are in for a surprise because West Ham have a shopping list of players which almost blew me away.

“People have said I put money before medals and how could I make a sideways move like this and not go to a club like Liverpool, who are always in the hunt for trophies and so much prestige.

“It was an extremely hard decision but I know it's the right one. West Ham moved heaven and earth to sign me while Liverpool gave me the impression that I might not even get a game if I went there.