Veltman is an experienced leader and has played more than 450 games at the highest level for Ajax and Brighton & Hove Albion, including more than 50 in European competitions and 165 in the Premier League. He wore the captain's armband for both clubs.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
He also impressed at the international level, representing his national side, the Netherlands, 28 times. Veltman helped his country reach the FIFA World Cup semifinals in 2014 and featured at UEFA Euro 2020.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI\u2019m delighted to have signed, and I can\u2019t wait to get started,\u201d said Veltman, who joins on a one-year contract with an option for a second year. \u201cThe project here really excites me. I spoke to Nuno, as well as my family and my agent, and everything added up. We know that West Ham need to be in the Premier League, and for sure that is our goal for the season.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cI think I bring my experience, my winning mentality and togetherness. I bring leadership - I\u2019ve been the captain at Ajax, and I enjoy talking to my teammates and using my experience to help the squad. I\u2019m just so excited to give everything, to meet my new teammates and to see all the supporters too,\u201d He added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
West Ham's Director of Player Recruitment Nils Koppen and Head Coach Nuno Esp\u00edrito Santo identified Veltman as a person and player who will add specific qualities on and off the pitch.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cJoel has high standards, leadership qualities, strong communication skills, versatility on the pitch and great experience on both domestic and international levels,\u201d said Koppen in an official statement.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
West Ham's Director of Player Recruitment Nils Koppen and Head Coach Nuno Esp\u00edrito Santo identified Veltman as a person and player who will add specific qualities on and off the pitch.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
West Ham's next match is against Portsmouth at home in the first round of the Carabao Cup on Saturday. Following the cup tie, the Hammers will kick off their EFL Championship campaign under Head Coach Nuno Esp\u00edrito Santo as they target a direct return to the top flight.<\/p>\r\n\r\n