• Premier League

Hargreaves finalises shock City transfer

ESPNsoccernet staff
August 31, 2011
Owen Hargreaves spent last year at Manchester United © Getty Images
Enlarge

Manchester City have confirmed the signing of free agent midfielder Owen Hargreaves on a one-year deal. Hargreaves was released by Manchester United at the end of his contract last season, following an injury-blighted three years.

City defender Joleon Lescott backed the move on Tuesday. He said: "Owen is an experienced player, he has played in the Champions League, is an international. It is only going to be good for the City squad if he signs.

"I've worked with Owen at England level and he is a great professional. People ask if it represents a gamble but the club know what they are doing, Owen knows what he is doing. He is still a good player.

"He hasn't played as much as he would have liked over the last couple of seasons but the medical team we have is very good and very strong.

"If we can get him fit, I'm sure it won't be very long before he is back to his best. He will be a player with a point to prove after his injuries.''

Joe Hart also voiced his support for the deal, adding: "It would be a good signing. Obviously, Owen Hargreaves has done great for Bayern Munich. He has struggled a bit since he came to Manchester United but that is not down to ability, just his fitness.

"If he can get himself fit and does sign for Manchester City, it can only be a positive. He was a very important England player. If he can get back to that form, obviously he would be an asset.''

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices