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Bazza Hayles also goes to the Blades

last updated Wednesday 23rd June 2004, 2:54 PM

Sheffield United have signed Fulham striker Barry Hayles on a free transfer, reports BBC Radio Sheffield.

Hayles has signed a three-year deal at Bramall Lane after Fulham decided not to renew his contract.

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The 32-year-old held talks with Leeds earlier this month and the Elland Road club appeared favourites to sign him.

Blades boss Neil Warnock said: "He is a striker of proven quality and one I know will be able to bring something to our side."

"He has been offered contracts with a number of Premiership clubs, plus six from top First Division outfits," added Warnock. "But he doesn't want to be sitting on the bench in The Premiership, so we can be proud that he has come here

Warnock added: "He has demonstrated he can score goals and will give us that edge up front we need.

"So to say I am delighted is an understatement.

"There were plenty of other good clubs in for Barry.

"He is enthusiastic, although he said he did not know of anyone who was more enthusiastic in the game than me!"

"He will go straight in and bring leadership and quality to the front line," Warnock told the club's website.

"I have always liked him and wanted him in my team. Every time I have seen him Barry has been a thorn in the side of the opposition - horrible to play against."

"He knows how much I wanted to bring him here and he still has things to prove because he still thinks he should be playing for Fulham and that's the type of attitude we want here."

Hayles scored 58 goals in 219 starts for Fulham but fell out of favour last season, scoring only five League goals.

He becomes Warnock's second capture in three days following the signing of Jon Harley, also from Fulham.

Source BBCSport
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