HAMMERS SNARE COURTOIS

FRENCH winger Laurent Courtois has had his wish granted by West Ham boss Glenn Roeder, who has signed the Toulouse ace on a one-year deal.

The 22-year-old impressed Roeder during a recent trial spell, but The Hammers were initially slow to offer the player a contract.

This prompted the player to say: "I`ve had two or three offers from England but when I was told I could have a trial here I went quickly. Now I hope Glenn will take me on."

Roeder (pictured) has now completed the signing, saying: "I've been pleased with him and I'm looking forward to seeing how he does for us in the coming year."

Courtois arrives at Upton Park on a free transfer from troubled Toulouse, who were relegated from Le Championnat at the end of the season and promptly slipped further down the scale due to financial irregularities.

The winger signed for Toulouse from Lyon in July 2000, but has decided to move after his club were relegated two divisions.

Meanwhile, Aliou Cisse has failed to win a move to Upton Park from Paris Saint Germain.

Cisse played in the friendly with Rushden and Diamonds on Monday, but failed to sufficiently impress and was informed that his services were not required.

Speaking to the club`s official website, Roeder said: "We've had a look at him now for two games and I've spoken to him.

"I'd like to say thanks to him for working hard in the two games he has played for us, but we will not be taking him at this stage."