Lucas Neill became West Ham manager Alan Curbishley’s fourth major signing in a month after completing his move from Blackburn Rovers in a deal though to be around £1.5 million. 

The 27 year-old Australian captain snubbed a move to Liverpool preferring to join relegation threatened West Ham for higher wages. It has been thought that Neill will be given around £60,000 a week as wages, twice the amount of what Liverpool were willing to offer.

However Neill denied that he has moved to West Ham for money. "It wasn't about cash, that didn't come into it. It was about being wanted. West Ham were knocking down the door to get me whereas Liverpool made a take or leave it offer. They didn't even come in for me until 15 days after the transfer window opened", he said.

Neill added that contrary to popular belief, none of his decisions were dictated by money. "People who have raised their eyebrows at me for making this decision are in for a surprise because West Ham have a shopping list of players which almost blew me away. People have said I put money before medals and how could I make a sideways move like this and not go to a club like Liverpool, who are always in the hunt for trophies and so much prestige."

"West Ham moved heaven and earth to sign me while Liverpool gave me the impression that I might not even get a game if I went there. I supported them as a kid and I know people are going to give me stick for not choosing them. It was an extremely hard decision but I know it's the right one", he said.

Meanwhile Blackburn Rovers have completed the signing of Stephen Warnock who has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract at Ewood Park. Blackburn manager Mark Hughes said that Warnock has it in him to succeed at the club.

"Stephen is a guy who has got decent experience for someone of his age. He has played in the Champions League and in the Premiership. I just like his attitude to the game. He wants to get up to people, he wants to put pressure on people. He is naturally left-footed as well. Stephen would be a very good acquisition as I am trying to get a balance to the squad", Hughes added.