Pards gets his Pants

Pantsil impressed whilst on trial with the Hammers on their pre-season tour in Sweeden and has now signed a four-year contract after the two clubs agreed a fee which may rise to £1 million.

John started his career in Ghana before moving to Poland and then on to Maccabi Tel Aviv in Isreal in 2002. He then signed for Hapoel Tel Aviv permanently in December 2004. He played a big part in all of Ghana's games at this year's World Cup in Germany.

The 25-year-old right-back will be in direct competition for a starting place with Pardew's other recent signing Tye Mears once his work permit has arrived.