West Ham today confirmed the signing of Edouard Cisse - Glenn Roeder's second signing in the last fortnight. But how much do we know about him? Read on ...
Cisse, despite having had represented his country at under-21 level is hardly one of his countries more prolific footballers.Having joined Rennes in 1998 it wasn't long before the 20-year-old defensive midfielder was attracting the biggest clubs in France including Paris St Germain, who lured him to the capital just a year later.
Cisse, now 24, has spent the last three seasons with PSG although it wasn't until 2000 that he began to claim a permanent place in the first team. Last season he made 29 appearances for the first XI, whilst notching just the single goal.
During those three years he has also played in several European campaigns, at both UEFA Cup and Champions League level.
PSG, now managed by Luis Fernandez have allowed Cisse to join the Hammers on a years loan, but it is understood that the player will be allowed to move to Upton Park at the end of the season should West Ham decide to keep him on.
The 24-year-old has been linked with several other Premiership sides during the past few weeks; Everton were linked with Cisse in July, whilst Middlesbrough, Sunderland and Premiership newcomers Birmingham (who bought another Cisse - Senegalese Aliou, last month) have also been linked with the player of late.
Speaking to West Ham's website today, Cisse explained why he felt it was time to move on from PSG.
"It was a surprise in a way coming to West Ham but I had told PSG I wanted to move to another football club after four years with them.
"PSG said 'okay, you've given us excellent service so we will let you go'. I was pleased that they did.
"I definitely want to stay here at West Ham beyond the loan period and for many years beyond that. I hope West Ham make Europe this season - I will certainly do my best to help them win every week."
Edouard Cisse Factfile
Born: 30th March 1978
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 12st
Clubs: Rennes (1998-1999; 38 appearances, 4 goals); PSG (1999-2002; 78 appearances, 3 goals)
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