Allardyce lands first signing

West Ham have completed the signing of American defender George John.

The 24-year-old was unveiled as United's first signing of the transfer window - as revealed here on KUMB earlier in the week - but is not expected to go staright into Sam Allardyce's first team plans.

John, who signs on loan with an option to make the deal permanent, explained to whufc.com: "Maybe it will take two or three weeks to give me some time to develop and get back in the swing of things. Hopefully I can impress and get some game time with the first team.

"I have been to the training ground and met the manager. I am excited about being coached by him and developing my game. I want to learn a lot and understand about English football and just adapt my game."

The FC Dallas central defender was called up to join the USA national squad for the first time last month, but withdrew so that he may travel to Europe to find a new club as his current contract expires in the summer.

John spoke with a number of clubs before agreeing to join West Ham - including Premier League Blackburn Rovers, who agreed a seven-figure fee with FC Dallas before talks broke down over personal terms.