Fulham wrap up Dempsey deal

United States international forward Clint Dempsey has joined Premiership side Fulham FC from New England Revolution for a reported €3m fee after obtaining a work permit.

American influence
A deal for the 23-year-old, who has scored six goals in 23 international appearances, was initially agreed late last year but was placed in doubt because Dempsey, due to injury, had played in less than 75 per cent of the United States' international games in 2006, making him technically ineligible for a work permit. However, the British authorities have now approved the move, meaning Dempsey can join fellow American internationals Carlos Bocanegra and Brian McBride at Craven Cottage.

'Real happy'
"I'm real happy that everything has been sorted out regarding the work permit and I can't wait to get started training with the guys," said Dempsey, who has agreed a long-term deal. Fulham manager Chris Coleman added: "I have been watching Clint for a while now and he is an aggressive, offensively-minded player with a great deal of skill and aptitude. He also has a great attitude towards the game which is very important to me when I sign a player."