The problems with signings after they join West Ham are becoming more like a pattern looking at records of recent years.
Looking at some additions in recent years; first from the deal of Dean Ashton from Norwich City. Alan Pardew signed him for a club record fee of £7 million, only for him to get an ankle injury while on national team duty. That injury eventually forced his retirement in 2009.
In January 2007, then boss Alan Curbishley signed defender Matthew Upson for £6 million. They were keen to remain in the top flight, hence the signing from Birmingham City. Unfortunately, Upson picked up more than a knock in his very first game, ending his action for the rest of the year. During the summer of that year, they club acquired several players, but with terrible injury records. Craig Bellamy joined from Liverpool for £7.5 million. He had some good moments at Upton Park but the injuries were a major concern. Freddie Ljungberg joined from Arsenal about the same period, playing only 26 games in the only season he spent at the club due to injuries.
Scott Parker and Julian Faubert would not be left out despite the long time they spent at the club as they inured for long in their debut season. The most outstanding transfer fail due to injuries is another Curbishley addition Kieron Dyer. Dyer joined from Newcastle United on a £6 million deal. His leg was broken from the beginning of his time at West Ham, and his subsequent injuries ensured he played in only 22 games in his four year duration at the club. None of the 22 games was for a full game, raising questions as to what the problem really is.
West Ham signed Andre Ayew from Swansea City for a whopping £20.5 million, yet he picked up an injury in his debut game. The injury would mean he misses half a season, confirming the injury curse.