WEST Ham United are delighted to announce a fantastic double
signing with defensive duo James Collins and Danny Gabbidon joining
from Cardiff City on long-term contracts.
Gabbidon began his career at West Bromwich Albion, before joining
the Bluebirds for £175,000 in September 2000 making 217
appearances at Ninian Park and establishing himself as a top young
defender.
He made his international debut for Wales against the Czech
Republic in March 2002 and has since become a key member of the
international side, winning 17 full caps.
Hammers boss Alan Pardew believes the signing of Danny is fantastic
for the Hammers.
He said: "Danny comes to West Ham United with a lot of
experience for a player of his age.
"At just 25-years-old he is already a key player for the Welsh
national team and has shown a lot of maturity in his performances.
"Pace and agility will be his major assets as Danny makes the
transition to the Premier League. He has already shown at
international level that he has what it takes to perform at the
highest level."
James Collins graduated from the Cardiff City youth system to make
his first-team debut in November 2000 against Bristol Rovers in the
FA Cup, aged just 17.
He went on to establish himself as a star of the Bluebirds
first-team, capping an excellent season last term with a fine
display in Cardiff's narrow 1-0 defeat at Upton Park.
Born in Newport, Collins made 85 appearances for Cardiff and has
won 5 full caps for Wales, the first of which came in May 2004
against Norway.
Alan Pardew was delighted to secure the 21-year-old's
signature.
Pards said: "James is an excellent prospect. He is probably
lacking experience as he joins the Club, but do not underestimate
his potential.
"At 21 he has already played for the Welsh national side, and
with the signing of James and Danny we now have five of the best
young centre-backs in the country."
FACTFILE
Danny Gabbidon
Born: Cwmbran, Wales
Date of Birth: 8th August 1979
Height: 5ft 10ins
Position: Central Defender
Previous Clubs: West Brom, Cardiff City
International: 17 Full Wales Caps
FACTFILE
James Collins
Born: Newport, Wales
Date of Birth: 23rd August 1983
Height: 6ft 2ins
Position: Defender
Previous Clubs: Cardiff City
International: 5 Full Wales Caps