Hammers happy to have Chadwick

West Ham have completed the signing of Manchester United winger Luke Chadwick on a free transfer.

The former England Under-21 international was unable to win a regular place in the United midfield despite a handful of impressive appearances as a teenager.

Chadwick spent all of last season on loan with Burnley, scoring five goals, and has also had spells with Royal Antwerp and Reading.

His three-month stint with the Royals at the end of 2002-03 season first brought him under the guidance of current Hammers boss Alan Pardew.

Pardew told the club’s official website, www.whufc.com: “I am delighted to have signed a player with great potential.

“Luke did well for me when I took him to Reading and I expect him to become an exciting and important part of the squad.

“He is certainly a player the fans will enjoy watching.”