The free transfer is a move that can have many benefits. However too some supporters it’s just picking up some other teams rejects, but a free transfer is all gravy if the player produces. West Ham snapped up four free transfers for the latest promotion push and the four were Faye, O’Brien, Diop, and Carew, and all seem to have a place in the squad.
I took some time to look over years of West Ham free transfer moves and tried to find the Top 5. Now I know I’ve probably missed off some obvious choices so please feel free to input on you feel should have made the list.
Guillermo Franco – Now he was part of squad that lacked scoring and only played 23 matches for the club, but he found the net 5 times. The Mexican International also assisted Scott Parker in the thrilling 3-2 win over Wigan, that kept the club up in 2010. He showed good flashes of what he could do and I felt the club should have kept hold of his services. However, he was let go and he left for Velez Sarsfield in Argentina, and as we all know West Ham got relegated the next year.
Chris Hughton – Having Played nearly 300 matches for Spurs, West Ham picked up Hughton on loan for a season then signed him in a free. He played 32 matches for the club and filled in nicely. A good solid defender.
Teddy Sheringham – The former Man United player came to Upton Park after the club was relegated, and bagged an impressive 20 goals and naturally, was named player of the year. He helped the Hammers win the playoff final and return to the Premier League. In 2006, he became the oldest outfield player in Premier League history. Hammers fans still love Teddy depsite his Tottenham connection, which speaks volumes about the man and player.
Shaka Hislop – Picked up by Harry Redknapp, the Trinidad and Tobago international won the Hammer of the year award in 98-99. Appeared in 121 games during 2 stints as well as an FA cup final in 05-06.
Jim Barrett Sr. – I’m not sure about this but I know Barrett started at small time club Fairbairn House and transfered to West Ham. No fee was found so I am going to go out on a limb and say it was on a free. He played in 442 games (Top 10 in club history) and scored 49 goals. Known as Big Jim, and actually had his son, Jim Barrett Jr. played for the club (85 games).
Let us know who you think is the best ever free transfer signing on Twitter @Forever_WestHam
