Coleman pleased with Niemi move to Cottage

ANTTI NIEMI has completed his transfer from Southampton to Fulham. The Premiership club are believed to have paid around £1m (€1.46m) for the 33-year-old Finnish goalkeeper, who has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at Craven Cottage.

Manager Chris Coleman said: “Antti is an intelligent goalkeeper of great ability, and with proven credentials at the very highest level, I believe he will be a great addition to our squad and we look forward to welcoming him here.”

The former Rangers and Hearts player, who made 123 appearances for Saints, is expected to become Coleman’s first-choice keeper ahead of Tony Warner, who signed last week from Cardiff.

Niemi said: “I met with Chris Coleman, Steve Kean and Dave Beasant to talk about a potential move, and was very impressed with the amount of time they spent with me discussing their future plans, which was a real factor in my decision to come to the club.

“I am looking forward to joining the squad for training today and to being back in the Premiership again.”

Niemi, who is expected to make his debut against Newcastle on Saturday, was unable to prevent the Saints being relegated last season.

He added: “It is a good move for me but I would not have gone if the whole package had not been right.

“It is a good club and a wonderful part of London and I will enjoy life there.

“But I am still sad to be leaving Southampton. I have had a great time and some wonderful memories - although relegation last season was the worst moment of my career.

“Saints have been good to me and I am leaving on very good terms.”

Meanwhile, Cardiff brought in their second striker in two days, with one other heading out of Ninian Park.

The Bluebirds signed Scotland international Steven Thompson from Rangers, 24 hours after bringing in former Darlington striker Guylain Ndumbu-Nsungu, while Alan Lee has left Ninian Park for Ipswich.

Ipswich signed Republic of Ireland striker Lee, 27, on a deal believed to be for £100,000 until the summer of 2006.