West Ham hope Diamanti can shine in their attack

West Ham have eased their striking problems ahead of today's trip to Blackburn with the signing of Livorno forward Alessandro Diamanti. The 26-year-old Italian, who joins the Upton Park club for an undisclosed fee, has signed a five-year contract with the Hammers. He told his new club's website: "I am very happy to be at West Ham and to get the chance to play for Gianfranco Zola." The only senior frontline striker currently fit at Upton Park is Carlton Cole, with Dean Ashton a notable absence through injury. New signing Pascal Chimbonda is in contention to start for Blackburn after the French defender completed his move from Tottenham on Thursday night. Blackburn v West Ham, 6pm, Showseries Xtra