English sides, West Ham, Newcastle and Middlesbrough are all hoping to pick up Ghana's captain, Stephen Appiah, on the cheap as they travel to Accra to watch him play against Tunisia on Wednesday. FIFA has ruled the former Fenerbahce ace can leave on a free transfer after recovering from a botched knee surgery by doctors of the Turkish club.

Fenerbahce has earlier disputed the ruling and even warned clubs that, they will have to pay dearly if they want to sign him. But the world governing body insisted on its ruling in a press statement last week declaring the Ghana captain a free agent.

Appiah, a powerful midfielder who can also defend and score goals, was once subject of a 7million bid by Portsmouth. All three English clubs will watch him play for Ghana against Tunisia this week and likely to make their offers to the midfield powerhouse after the game.

Appiah's former club, Juventus may also be interested, but the player's friendship with his Ghana team- mate, Chelsea's Michael Essien, may favour a move to London and West Ham.