Republic of Ireland legend Wes Hoolahan has penned a one-year contract with A-League outfit Newcastle Jets.
Former Shelbourne, Blackpool and Norwich City star Hoolahan had been training with Cambridge United this summer.
The 37-year-old midfielder has been branded 'the Irish Messi' on the club's website. Newcastle Jets finished seventh in the A-League last season.
Wes Hoolahan retired from international football last year after making 43 appearances for the 'Boys in Green'.
He scored a memorable goal against Sweden at Euro 2016.
Take a look at just what Jets fans can expect from our newest signing, Wes Hoolahan! 🔥 #MadeOfNewcastle pic.twitter.com/QkZRnO0zhc
— NEWCASTLE JETS FC ✈️ (@NewcastleJetsFC) August 9, 2019
Hoolahan, who will wear the number eight jersey at his new club, said:
"It's always been a dream of mine to play abroad and I'm delighted that I'll be playing in Newcastle this season.
There are some quality players throughout the league and I'm looking forward to testing myself in a new environment.
I'm really excited to be in Australia, it's an entirely new challenge for me and I can't wait to get started."
Wes Hoolahan on the hallowed @MJStadium turf, clad in Jets colours! 🍀👏 #MadeOfNewcastle
📰 https://t.co/l2Trdt7jnv pic.twitter.com/sPzheZmSI1— NEWCASTLE JETS FC ✈️ (@NewcastleJetsFC) August 9, 2019
Jets manager Ernie Merrick added:
"Wes Hoolahan is a great get for us, he's keen to come out and play in the Hyundai A-League and we're confident he can bring a lot to the side.
He's an attacking-minded midfielder who will fit seamlessly into the style of football we like to play, his passing range is superb and he's great with the ball at his feet.
Wes' experience will be invaluable to us, from all reports he's a model professional and the type of player that our younger guys will learn from."
