Liverpool winger Stewart Downing has joined West Ham United on a four-year deal. The transfer fee is reportedly around £6million, which represents at £14million loss for Liverpool, who signed the player for £20million in 2011 from Aston Villa.

Downing will join up with former Liverpool teammate Andy Carroll.

Despite the massive loss for the Reds, Downing’s performances have improved significantly during the past six months at Anfield, which will give Hammers supporters hope that he can continue playing well at the Upton Park club.

Downing still has his hopes set on making the England squad for next summer’s World Cup tournament if and when the team qualifies, so the England winger certainly has a lot to work towards.

Downing said:

“I’m very excited. It’s a great opportunity for me being here, it’s a great Club and I’m really excited to get going.

“I’m ready and I’m fit for the first game against Cardiff City. I’ve played a decent few games for Liverpool in pre-season, so there will be no problems on that front.

“It’s all happened quickly, but I’m really excited and hoping to play a part on Saturday.”