Neill opts for Hammers
21 Jan 2007 - 10:58:15
Blackburn Rovers defender Lucas Neill has confirmed that he has decided to join West Ham United, having turned down an approach from Liverpool for his services.
The 28-year-old Australia international is out of contract at the end of the season and has rejected the offer of a new contract from Rovers, opting to try his luck at Upton Park instead.
He told the Sydney Telegraph: "West Ham were knocking down the door to get me, whereas Liverpool made a take or leave it offer.
"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 will say I have 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."