Six Facts Worth Knowing About West Ham's Araujo Ilan

Before you say the only Ilan I know is of the Lotus kind, Ilan Araujo Dall'Igna is a former Brazilian international and an extremely skilful footballer. I doubt if anyone have heard of him before the signing and though it looks like a gamble from Zola, it could be a potentially influential signing as well.

All I know is that I am standing behind and supporting the club as I believe West Ham need their supporters behind them and cheer them to relegation safety. Nevertheless, as with all fans, I dug up six facts worth knowing about this 29-year old Brazilian footballer who is well-respected among the St Etienne faithfuls.

 Ilan's fact file:

1. Capable of playing anywhere upfront and here is the proof (a bit tongue-in-cheek)

   "I hope no one's expecting me to make the run from midfield, put the cross in and score the goal all in one move," then-Saint-Etienne forward Ilan when returning from injury

2. Scored 54 goals and 16 assists in 166 matches in Ligue 1 and UEFA competitions at a rate of 1 goal in 309 minutes played.
3. Was wanted by Celtic and Flamengo before finally opting for West Ham.
4. Ilan helped Atletico Paranaense to their first Brazilian league title in 2001 before enjoying success with French sides Sochaux and St Etienne.
5. Won his three caps for Brazil in the 2003 Confederations Cup but did not score against Turkey, US and Cameroon.
6. Has already shown that he is a winner and a leader. He is a Brasilian League winner in 2001 and  has captained Saint-Etienne in Ligue 1.

So now that Ilan is introduced to all Hammer fans, the attacking options are truly boosted.

Gold and Sullivan have come good on their promise to the Upton Park faithful, it's time for Zola and Clarke to put a strong team together to stave off relegation.

Come On You Irons!