Sunderland FC

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Keane seals Ferdinand deal

27 Aug 2008 - 13:47:24

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Sunderland have completed the signing of central defender Anton Ferdinand from West Ham United for an undisclosed fee.

The 23-year-old England Under-21 international has signed a four-year contract with the Black Cats, with the deal reported to be worth around £8million to the Hammers.

Sunderland boss Roy Keane told the club's official website: "We needed to strengthen our defence and Anton is a great signing.

"He's still young, but he has over 160 games under his belt so he has experience, he's learning his trade.

"He'll bring quality and competition for places which is what we want, hopefully we can take him to another level here at Sunderland.

"He has come through the ranks at West ham and maybe just needs a change."

Ferdinand himself added: "It was hard leaving West Ham because I have been there for 16 years, but after meeting Roy Keane I knew it was time for a chance.

"This is a great challenge for me and I feel it is an exciting time at Sunderland. I think the move will do me good."