McCarthy move delayed

Posted Friday, January 29, 2010 by PA

Benni McCarthy's move to West Ham has been delayed by work permit issues but is expected to go through over the weekend, according to Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce.

The clubs have agreed a fee for the South Africa striker but there has been a hold-up over McCarthy's permit which is due to expire when his Blackburn contract runs out in 18 months. It means McCarthy will not be available to play for the Hammers when Blackburn travel to Upton Park on Saturday

Allardyce said: "It's close to him finally becoming a West Ham player. It's a work permit situation, that's the only hiccup and that should be resolved by Sunday."

McCarthy infuriated Allardyce but not turning up for training in order to force through a move but Rovers midfielder David Dunn said McCarthy would not "lose much sleep" over leaving the club under a cloud.

Dunn said: "Sometimes things like that happen, it's perhaps not always the best way but I'm sure Benni will not lose too much sleep over it.

"There has been a bit of attention on Benni over the last week but maybe he feels this is the right career move for him.

"He has been a good goalscorer for the club and is a good lad as well so I wish him all the best."