Razvan Rat lasted just eight months in London, but is still part of the Romanian national team.
When West Ham snapped up Romanian international Razvan Rat on a free transfer last summer it looked like something of a coup. A seasoned pro in the Champions League with Shakhtar Donetsk and a long time international with his country – he was certainly a talented player many were chasing.
In fact, the Hammers swooped in ahead of French giants Marseille to complete his signing last summer.
Rat became something of a cult hero among some fans. His onesie modelling has earned him fans in the stands as well as his eccentric and often amusing attitude – his decision to take the number eight shirt upon arrival certainly demonstrated that.
But in reality he was something of a flop at Upton Park. The 33-year-old featured just 15 times in the Premier League before leaving on a free transfer after just eight months – joining Spanish side Rayo Vallecano in the process.
But despite his club level troubles he is still a major force in the Romanian international set-up. He has 84 caps for his nation – but he is not a regular goal-scorer.
But last night he bagged his second ever goal for his country, firing home from close range in a 1-0 win against Albania.
It was a scrappy goal, but we doubt Rat will mind. It is his first goal for Romania since he netted against Germany in a stunning 5-1 Romanian victory … in April 2004, more than ten years ago.
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