Zakuani - information when he signed for fulham <div class="sys_biographttext">Signing a four year deal that will keep him at the club until 2010 Gabriel Zakuani arrived from Leyton Orient in the Summer of 2006. Having made his debut for Orient in March 2003, aged just 16, the young defender quickly established himself as a regular in the side, playing an integral role at the heart of the O's defence over the last two seasons. Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, 20-year-old Zakuani made his debut for his country in August 2005. A powerful and intelligent centre half, he brings an assurance to the centre of defence that belies his years. His composure and aerial assertiveness had been admired by Chris Coleman and other Premiership managers for some time. Indeed, speaking after Zakuani put pen to paper, the Fulham Manager said of his new signing; “He has great maturity for his age and I believe that over time he will establish himself as a formidable force at the back. “We managed to beat off considerable competition in the race for Gabriel's signature, so I'm delighted that he has chosen to commit his future to Fulham for the long term.' </div>