O'Neil, 27, has signed a two and a half year deal and could make his debut in the League Cup Semi-Final Second Leg against Birmingham City at St Andrews tomorrow (Wednesday)
The former Portsmouth midfielder becomes West Ham's second confirmed signing of the transfer window following the arrival of left back Wayne Bridge and could be followed into Upton Park by Senegal striker Demba Ba from Hoffenheim. The club are currently waiting for a work permit for the striker which shouldn't be a problem but the club will have to wait for an injury to clear before he can be considered for selection.
Gary O'Neil started his career at West Ham where he played for the academy but was released by the club and picked up by Portsmouth who he made 174 appearances for before a £5m move took him to Middlesbrough.
This season he has been an important member of Middlesbrough's midfield making 18 appearances but cash strapped Boro were looking to reduce their wage bill and couldn't turn down West Ham's offer and the player himself has confessed it felt like he was "coming home"
Gary O'Neils career:
1999-2007 - Portsmouth - 174 apps (16 goals)
2003 - Walsall (loan) - 7 apps
2004 - Cardiff City (loan) 9 apps (1 goal)
2007-2011 - Middlesbrough - 109 apps (8 goals)
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